Vista Medical Center East placed on EMS bypass amid ongoing challenges

Waukegan Vista Medical Center East placed on EMS bypass amid ongoing challenges The Waukegan Fire Department said its emergency medical protocols "have been immediately adjusted" in response to the bypass notice. By Matt Stefanski and NBC Chicago Staff • Published November 7, 2026 • Updated on November 7, 2026 at 12:56 pm Editor's note: The video in the player above is from a previous report. Saturday marked the latest hurdle in a series of challenges for Vista Medical Center East in Waukegan, as the hospital was placed on EMS bypass. Stream NBC 5 for free, 24/7, wherever you are. WATCH HERE The Winthrop Harbor Fire Department said in a Facebook post that it was notified by the Illinois Department of Public Health that Vista Medical Center East was placed on EMS bypass as of 7 a.m. "This will stay in effect until further notice," the post read, in part. "Ambulances will not be transporting patients there while the bypass is in effect." The department said staffing shortages, coupled with the longer trip to Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville, can leave ambulances unavailable for local calls. As a result, patients whose conditions allow are being asked to consider closer hospitals. The Waukegan Fire Department said its emergency medical protocols "have been immediately adjusted" in response to the bypass notice. In a Facebook post, the department said it remains committed to providing "seamless pre-hospital care without disrupting emergency response times." Local Chicago Bears 4 hours ago 10-year-old Bears fan podcasters attend their first game CTA 5 hours ago CTA bus driver kidnapping renews concerns over transit worker safety "...Effective today, all emergency transport ambulances will route patients to the nearest available alternative hospital," the post read, in part. "The leadership of the Waukegan Fire Department is working closely with regional health authorities and city leadership to monitor this situation and keep the community informed..." Vista East continues to accept walk-in patients at its emergency room. The EMS bypass is the latest setback for the hospital. In October, IDPH revoked Vista Medical Center East's designation as a Level II trauma center, limiting its ability to treat certain serious injuries. In July, NBC Chicago reported that the hospital faced foreclosure proceedings over $2 million in back taxes owed to Lake County. Late last year, the hospital ended its labor and delivery and obstetrics and gynecology services. This article tagged under: Waukegan