DAWSON CREEK, B.C. – Emergency Department services at Dawson Creek and District Hospital will be unavailable for five hours starting Tuesday afternoon due to staffing challenges, according to Northern Health.
Northern Health says the interruption is scheduled to run from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. on September 1.
During that time, residents requiring life-threatening emergency care are being urged to call 911 for transport to the nearest available and appropriate facility.
Health officials note that emergency department service levels can change on short notice and advise residents to check the Northern Health Emergency Department Status webpage for the most up-to-date information.
Patients arriving at the hospital during the service interruption will be directed to call 911 if they require emergency transportation.
Northern Health says local health-care partners and patient transfer agencies have been notified, and signage will be posted at the hospital to inform patients of the temporary closure.
For non-urgent medical concerns, residents without a primary care provider can access the Northern Health Virtual Primary and Community Care Clinic by calling 1-844-645-7811 between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. daily.
Anyone unsure whether their condition requires an emergency room visit can contact HealthLink BC by dialing 811 for non-emergency health advice from nurses, dietitians and pharmacists.