Local Geisinger hospitals above capacity at 'historic levels'
Scranton Times-Tribune • • health
Key Points:
- Geisinger hospitals in Lackawanna and Luzerne counties are operating above 100% capacity due to a surge in respiratory viruses and an influx of patients switching from Commonwealth Health amid its uncertain future.
- The surge is driven by influenza, RSV, and COVID-19, with a mutated flu strain (subclade K) contributing to increased flu cases despite statewide flu activity reportedly decreasing.
- Emergency departments and inpatient units, including ICU and stepdown beds, are overwhelmed, with patients lining hallways and all available spaces being used for care, causing significant strain on staff and resources.
- Geisinger urges the public to seek care at appropriate locations such as primary care providers, urgent care clinics, or via telehealth for mild
