FORT ST. JOHN -- Northern Health has released a statement advising the public that there may be increased wait times at the Fort St. John Hospital.
Northern Health issued the alert on their Facebook page, warning residents of higher than usual patients of volumes.
“Fort St. John and area residents are advised that Fort St. John Hospital is experiencing higher than usual patient volumes, and wait times in the emergency department may be longer than usual,” said Northern Health.
In the social media post, Northern Health reminded the public that emergency department visits are intended for sudden and unusual changes to a patient’s health: breathing difficulties, chest pain, serve bleeding, broken bones, suspected overdoses, and eye injuries.
The health authority is advising residents to contact their primary care provider or book appointments with a pharmacist for minor illness prescriptions and contraceptives to help reduce strain on acute care resources.
Patients with non-emergency matters are also being asked to book virtual appointments with the Northern Health Primary and Community Care Clinic for symptoms including headache, sore throat, coughs, ear aches, feelings of anxiety or depression, and minor burns.
The virtual clinic operates daily from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Appointments can also be booked through the The First Nations Virtual Doctor of the Day program that is available to Indigenous communities in B.C. with limited doctor access by calling 1-855-344-3800.
The service is available Monday through Sunday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
If you are unsure what constitutes an emergency department visit, Northern Health is asking that you contact the HealthLink helpline by dialling 8-1-1, available 24 hours a day.
