Professionals Fear Hospital-Bed Shortage

Medical professionals in Monterey County are worried there may soon not be enough beds to meet the growing demand for emergency treatment in the county.

Traditionally, area hospitals are busiest during the winter. But this year's flu outbreak and a number of other factors are keeping medical facilities busier than usual.

"There's been a dramatic increase in [patients] this year at all the hospitals," said Nuala Rippere, director of the emergency room at Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital.