Windsor MPP slams province for crowded hospitals

The provincial government needs to step up and deal with the increasing problem of crowded hospitals in Ontario, according to Windsor West MPP Lisa Gretzky.

Her criticism of the health minister comes after a lengthy battle with over-capacity issues at the Windsor Regional Hospital.

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The hospital has seen the number ofpatients skyrocketagain this week, causing cancelled surgeries and leaving 50 people without beds.

Gretzky sent an open letter to the minister of health several weeks ago when the issue first emerged. By talking to officials with the ministry of health, she learned other regions including Toronto are struggling with bed shortages too.

"They have a hospital in the Toronto area that was at 250 beds over capacity," Gretzky said. "I find that quite concerning. If it's happening to anybody the ministry should be addressing that by providing hospitals with more funding."

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Officials with the Windsor Regional Hospital said they are working with the provincial government on a solution, but didn't provide details on what that solution might be.

"There needs to be a plan put in place, so that it's not a reactive response to an increase in need," Gretzky said.