As a reminder, we continue to experience a very high number of Emergency Department (ED) visits due in large part to respiratory illnesses, mental health concerns and COVID-19.* The ED is using every available space to treat patients, including lobby space, a converted storage area and tents. Seattle Children’s Urgent Care clinics also are experiencing high demand and are full most days.

Your Help Is Needed

  • Set expectations with families when you send them to the ED about the high volumes. We are doing everything we can to quickly get them the care they need.
  • When sending families to the ED, please contact our ED Communications Center first at 206-987-8899.
  • Consider activating any winter surge plans now (i.e., extended or additional clinic hours) to allow lower-acuity patients to be seen in clinics and preserve the ED for those who need it most.
  • Continue to see patients in primary care whenever possible to reduce pressure on both Urgent Care and the ED.

*Hospitalization for COVID-19 remains low.