UNC Health Southeastern in Lumberton is experiencing what other hospitals throughout the state are as the Omicron variant surges, according to UNC Health Southeastern President/CEO Chris Ellington.
Ellington said because the variant is extremely contagious and spreading quickly, the total number of people who are requiring hospitalization is higher than past surges, although their symptoms are less severe.
"We continue to see higher numbers of COVID-19 patients who are unvaccinated," said Ellington.
He added their medical center is on diversion, as are all other hospitals in our region, meaning that they're not accepting transfers from other hospitals.
"Our emergency department is not currently overwhelmed but patients who are seeking care for minor issues are experiencing longer wait times," explained Ellington.
The hospital is limiting the number of elective surgical cases that are being performed daily that require an inpatient bed.
Ellington said staffing is impacted and they are using contract staffing where needed.
Employee infection rate is lower than the general public due to the mitigation efforts taken including vaccination, and proper wearing of personal protective equipment, including hospital grade surgical masks throughout the system, according to Ellington.
"Our medical and surgical staff, along with the nursing teams, are focused on providing safe, effective care to all our patients and are making adjustments daily to accommodate the needs of both the patient and their families."