Sask. doctor says soaring number of COVID-19 cases leading to 'tough decisions' in ICUs

A Saskatchewan ICU doctor says the healthcare system is “stretched” and doctors have to make difficult calls as the number of COVID-19 cases rises.

Dr. Lookman Abdu at Battleford Union Hospital says over 90 per cent of people that have ended up in ICU haven’t been vaccinated.

Alberta and Saskatchewan have the lowest vaccination rates in Canada, and the highest rates of COVID-19 per capita, according to federal health officials. 

“You have to make a tough decision, who is the sickest, who is the youngest, who has more comorbidities or medical problems,” Abdul said.

He says ventilators aren’t allowed on medical wards and if there are no beds in the ICU, patients can't acces some specialized equipment or life support.