Northern Health announced changes Thursday to after-hours coverage at the Tumbler Ridge Health Centre’s Emergency Department (ED).
The announcement sparked strong reactions across the Peace Region.
“The move is a slap in the face. I have residents already wanting to leave a day after the announcement,” said Tumbler Ridge Mayor Daryl Krakowka.
Northern Health reduced on-call services, creating coverage gaps. On-call services will be available from 8 am to 9 am in the morning, and from 5 pm to 7 pm in the evening.
Before the change, The ED used a call out model after hours. Residents would go to the clinic, dial a number, and a on-call doctor would come in from home.
Peace Region MLA Larry Neufeld said the change affects staff work-life balance and contributes to burnouts. The Tumbler Ridge Health Centre’s Emergency Department has already lost two doctors this year.
Outside of on-call hours, Tumbler Ridge residents now must dial 911 to be assessed by paramedics. In life-threatening cases, patients will be transported to the nearest available facility in another community.
Krakowka acknowledged the facility is experiencing staffing issues but argued Northern Health chose an unhealthy solution.
“This leaves Tumbler Ridge with no emergency services at all on weekends and late nights. This is not a way to serve residents,” said the mayor.
A second full-time ambulance has been added to the city, but Krakowka said it won’t be enough.
Since the announcement, Neufeld has been working with Northern Health’s CEO and the Minister of Health to seek the best possible outcome.
“I am very concerned about ensuring adequate care to residents of Tumbler Ridge,” he said
Krakowka worries Northern Health’s decision may become permanent.