What happens if a Hospital is too full to admit patients?

If a hospital is too full to admit patients, it is considered to be "on diversion." This means that the hospital is not accepting any new patients except for those who are in critical condition or need emergency care.

When a hospital is on diversion, it typically means that all of its beds are full and there are no available staff members to care for new patients. This can happen during times of peak demand, such as during a flu season or after a natural disaster.

When a hospital is on diversion, patients who are not in critical condition may be asked to wait in the emergency room until a bed becomes available. In some cases, patients may be transferred to another hospital that has the capacity to care for them.

Diversion can cause significant delays in care and inconvenience for patients. However, it is a necessary measure to ensure that hospitals can provide safe and effective care to patients who are in need.

Here are some things that can happen if a hospital is too full to admit patients:

* Patients may experience longer wait times in the emergency room. This can be especially dangerous for patients who are in critical condition or need immediate medical attention.

* Patients may be transferred to another hospital. This can be disruptive for patients and their families, and it can also lead to delays in care.

* Patients may be asked to go home and seek care from their primary care physician. This may not be an option for patients who do not have a primary care physician or who need specialized care.

* Patients may be forced to cancel or postpone their elective surgeries. This can be frustrating and inconvenient for patients, and it can also lead to additional health problems.

Diversion is a serious problem that can have a significant impact on patients and their families. However, it is a necessary measure to ensure that hospitals can provide safe and effective care to patients who are in need.