Peterborough Regional Health Centre’s Emergency Department wait-time clock is designed with patients in mind, providing timely updates on the estimated wait to see a physician. The wait times shown are estimates only and are not a guarantee of when patients will be seen. The figures are based on a statistical measure (average) of how long most patients wait.

Please note:

  • Patients are seen in order of medical priority, not arrival time. Those with more serious conditions will always be treated first.
  • Wait times can change quickly and unexpectedly due to new or more urgent emergencies.
  • This information is provided for general guidance only. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1 or seek assistance immediately.

The posted wait time reflects the estimated time from when patients are triaged to when they are first seen by a physician. It does not include the total time spent in the Emergency Department or time to discharge, transfer or admission.

Figures are updated every 60 minutes to provide patients and families timely information to make informed decisions.

Figures reflected in the wait-time clock could fluctuate due to an influx of critical patients, seasonal changes, or sudden high-volume incidents.

PRHC’s wait-time clock is designed to enhance transparency, reduce stress, empower patients, and enable informed decision-making.

Yes. The wait-time clock reflects all Emergency Department patients who have checked in or been triaged. This includes people who pre-registered, walked in, or arrived by ambulance.

Care alternatives: Patient seeking non-urgent care should consider the following alternatives to access treatment in the community:

  • East Region Virtual Care Clinic Nurse Practitioner-led virtual care clinic for urgent medical conditions and more timely care. Call: 1-888-684-1999 www.virtualcareontario.ca
  • Health811 Free, confidential 24/7 access to registered nurses and other health professionals by phone (dial 811) or online via chat.
  • Centralhealthline.ca Provides a comprehensive, searchable list of local walk-in clinics and virtual urgent care services, provided as a health and community service by Ontario Health at Home.
  • Health Care Connect While not for urgent issues, the provincial service, Ontario.ca – Find a Doctor, helps residents find a primary care provider for ongoing care.
  • Poison Control
    T: 1-800-268-9017

Additional care alternatives for unattached patients can be found here 

Streamlined Treatment & Evaluation Pathway (STEP)

STEP is a dedicated care pathway for patients with minor illnesses and injuries. It helps to reduce wait times and improve your care experience by streamlining the process before you arrive.

STEP helps everyone by providing faster care for minor concerns and allowing the ED to focus on higher-acuity patients.

Click on the button below to see if you are eligible for STEP or click here to learn more.

Click here to see if you are eligible for STEP