Clearwater emergency room closed for first time in 2026

CLEARWATER, B.C. — The emergency room in Clearwater is currently closed for the first time this year.

Interior Health says the ER at the Dr. Helmcken Memorial Hospital will be closed between 9:00 p.m. Friday (May 8) and 7:00 a.m. Saturday. People in need of emergency care during this 10-hour closure are being told to head to Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops or 100 Mile District General Hospital.

“All other inpatient services will continue at Dr. Helmcken Memorial Hospital,” Interior Health in a statement released just after 9:30 p.m.

As has been the case for previous emergency room closures, Interior Health says people should call 9-1-1 if they need emergency care, or HealthLink BC at 8-1-1 if they aren’t sure if they need to head to the emergency room.