Cambridge Memorial Hospital sees use of ‘safe rooms’ soar

The use of emergency “safe rooms” at Cambridge Memorial Hospital has more than quadrupled since 2023.

Safe rooms are low-stimulation special places for patients experiencing a mental health or addictions crisis. The rooms are designed to provide a controlled space for observation and de-escalation where patients have access to psychiatrists, social workers and dedicated nursing staff while under safe and supportive observation.

From only 121 patients in 2023-24 to 553 patients in 2024-25, the hospital is reporting a 357 per cent increase in use of these rooms.

“This year’s usage is trending similarly with the expectation that the need will rise in the winter months,” president and chief executive officer Patrick Gaskin told city councillors Thursday at a meeting.

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