As of May 8, 2026, data from urgencesquebec.com indicates a moderate increase in emergency room pressure across Quebec. There are currently 1,580 patients waiting for care across 119 facilities, representing a significant increase of 378 waiting patients compared to the status 12 days ago. While the total number of patients in the ER (4,437) has decreased slightly from the morning's peak of 4,655, overall stretcher occupancy remains high at 89% province-wide.
Regional disparities are prominent, with Montreal and surrounding areas facing the most severe overcrowding. Montreal is currently operating at 109% stretcher capacity, while Lanaudière (132%) and Montérégie (121%) have surpassed their nominal limits. In contrast, Northern Quebec and Saguenay Lac-Saint-Jean report much lower occupancy levels at 17% and 62% respectively. Hôpital Pierre-Le Gardeur and Hôpital Charles-Le Moyne are the most pressured sites, significantly contributing to the regional congestion.