The emergency department at the Chetwynd hospital is currently on diversion due to ‘staffing challenges.’
The service interruption was announced via social media at approximately 2:00 p.m. local time today and is expected to last until 8:00 a.m. Wednesday February 26. However, the health authority not ruling out a possible extension.
“We continue to work to fill available shifts; if there is a need to extend this closure, an update will be provided,” said Northern Health.
It is the first time this month that the ER has been closed, following three diversions and an interruption last month.
Northern Health is no longer informing residents whether the closure is the result of a doctor or nursing shortage.
Residents who are in need of life-saving medical care are being asked to call 9-1-1 to be transported to the nearest available hospital.
“Any time services are interrupted, our partners in patient transfer and local health services are notified and signage will be in place at the hospital informing patients to call 9-1-1 for transport,” says Northern Health.