FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. - Residents who need laboratory services at Fort St. John Hospital are being asked to plan ahead next month as staffing challenges will temporarily reduce service levels.
According to Northern Health, laboratory services at the hospital will be disrupted from November 4 to the 6 because of staffing shortages.
During that three-day period, only patients with pre-booked appointments will be accommodated.
The health authority is encouraging anyone requiring lab work during that time to ensure they have an appointment booked before attending the hospital.
Walk-in services will not be available while the temporary measures are in place.
Northern Health says patients with existing appointments who may be affected by the service disruption will be contacted directly if changes to their appointments are necessary.
The temporary reduction comes as healthcare providers across northern B.C. continue to face staffing pressures affecting a number of services throughout the region.
In a notice to the public, Northern Health thanked residents for their patience and understanding while efforts continue to maintain essential healthcare services during the staffing shortage.
Patients seeking more information about laboratory services are encouraged to contact Northern Health before arriving at the hospital.