A gridlock has been declared at the West Parry Sound Health Centre, due to higher than normal patient volumes. A ‘gridlock’ is when all inpatient beds at the hospital are full, preventing emergency department patients from being moved to a bed, leading to overcrowding and delays. The hospital enacted its gridlock policy at around 9 p.m. on Jan. 12., and is currently operating beyond usual capacity. Officials say patients may be admitted to overflow spaces including staying in the Emergency Department, or moving into the Ambulatory Care Department, Surgical Services Department or Family Waiting Rooms. Officials also say the hospital may have to temporarily alter or stop some programs and services, while they work to improve patient flow and capacity.