Spectrum Health Lakeland is warning of long wait times at its three emergency departments. High patient volumes are blamed by the hospital. Officials are asking people to only seek emergency care for severe or life threatening conditions such as persistent chest pain or pressure, broken bones, head injuries, major burns, numbness or paralysis, poisoning or suspected overdoses, not being able to breathe, seizures, sudden slurred speech, visual changes, or weakness, and uncontrolled breathing. All other conditions and illnesses are being encouraged to see a primary care doctor or a walk-in clinic. They add COVID-19 testing is available for people with symptoms.
