Winnipeg ER wait times different among racial groups: Report

A new report, examining how different racial groups experience the healthcare system, is shedding further light in Winnipeg emergency rooms.

According to the data, patients who identify as Indigenous, African, or Black are spending longer in Winnipeg emergency waiting rooms than white patients. 

Specifically at Winnipeg’s Health Science Centre, where indigenous and black patients waited four hours longer than others.

“Unfortunately, in a system under stress, it is often those who are the most marginalized and who have the fewest resources to draw on facing the most severe impacts,” said Dr. Marcia Anderson, the architect of the report.

Dr. Anderson says what is most concerning is the number of patients who decide to leave the ER without being seen by a doctor, due primarily to experiencing racism while awaiting care.

“Wait times are known to be a key factor in whether someone decides to leave without being seen, the in plain sight report and other studies show that racism and discrimination are also reasons why indigenous and African and or black patients may choose to leave,” Dr. Anderson explained.

To ensure all Manitobans receive the care they need, the report recommends that all emergency department staff “be prioritized for participation” in Indigenous cultural and anti-racism training, and anti-black training.

“The proactive analysis of this data will help to determine our decision making, and will help to determine when real progress is made. It will help us deliver better and more equitable care and a more supportive workplace for all,” said Dr. Shawn Young, the CEO of the Health Sciences Centre Winnipeg.