The Decibel Canada’s emergency room crisis is worse than we thought
Jul 7, 2025
Kelly Grant and Tu Thanh Ha, both investigative reporters at The Globe and Mail, delve into the alarming rise of emergency room closures across Canada, particularly in rural areas. They share gripping personal stories showcasing the dangers posed to communities, especially post-pandemic. The conversation highlights staffing shortages and the pressing need for accessible healthcare. They also discuss innovative local solutions, like recruiting healthcare workers from abroad and community-led initiatives to combat this crisis, illuminating paths forward in a challenging landscape.
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Derek's ER Closure Trauma
- Derek Maloney severely injured his hand in Bonavista, Newfoundland, but the local ER was closed when he arrived.
- He had to be treated by a nurse inside and then transported over an hour away for emergency surgery.
ER Closures Peaked Post-Pandemic
- ER closures peaked in February 2023 with Bonavista's ER closed 23 of 28 days.
- The situation has slightly improved, but no guarantee exists that ERs in rural towns are open 24/7.
Post-Pandemic ER Closure Surge
- ER closures in rural Canada worsened significantly after the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Many small towns never experienced locked ER doors before, but now closures are more frequent.