TUMBLER RIDGE, B.C. - Residents of Tumbler Ridge and surrounding areas are being advised that emergency department services at the Tumbler Ridge Health Centre will be unavailable for 12 hours on Wednesday due to staffing challenges.
Northern Health says the emergency department is scheduled to be closed from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on October 14.
During the service interruption, people experiencing life-threatening emergencies, including chest pain, difficulty breathing, or severe bleeding, are being told to call 9-1-1 for transport to the nearest available and appropriate facility.
Health officials note that emergency department availability can change abruptly and encourage residents to check Northern Health’s emergency department status webpage for the most current information.
For non-urgent medical concerns, patients are encouraged to contact their primary care provider.
Those without a family doctor or nurse practitioner can access care through Northern Health’s Virtual Primary and Community Care Clinic, which operates daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Anyone seeking non-emergency health advice can also contact HealthLink BC by dialing 8-1-1.
The health authority says local health-care partners and patient transfer services have been notified of the temporary closure, and signage will be posted at the hospital directing patients to call 9-1-1 if emergency transport is required.
This is the latest in a series of temporary emergency department service interruptions experienced by the community as Northern Health continues to face staffing challenges.