If last summer is any indication, doctors and nurses at the London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) will be delivering hundreds of babies over the next few months.
But this year, that summer baby boom and an ongoing staff shortage are leading to delays, prompting the hospital network to ask expectant parents for patience.
“We know that welcoming a new baby is a very exciting time, and people can be both anxious and excited,” Amanda Williams, the LHSC’s director of women’s care, said in a statement. “Due to the high volume of patients as well as some staffing challenges we are experiencing, we ask for patience as we work to provide high-quality care to all our patients.”
The increase in demand for service and staffing shortage is leading to longer wait times in both the outpatient clinic and the OB triage area and means some parents will not be able to get their requested room.
In particular, the LHSC noted that people who need to schedule inductions are most likely to be affected, but reassured each case will be looked at on an ongoing basis and scheduled based on medical need.
“Scheduled inductions may see their date changed as we navigate an influx of spontaneous births,” said Dr. Tracey Crumley, the chief of obstetrics and gynaecology at LHSC. “Please be assured that every patient’s case is reviewed individually and prioritized daily based on medical needs. For those waiting on a scheduled induction, you will be contacted when it is time to come to the hospital.”
Over a two month period last summer, there were 1,115 babies born at the LHSC, including 561 in July. That is the hospital network’s highest monthly total on record. On average, more than 5,850 babies are delivered at the LHSC annually.
