Clearwater ER to face two more closures in under one week

“People in the community who need life-threatening emergency care (i.e., chest pains, difficulty breathing, severe bleeding) should always call 911 for transport to the nearest available and appropriate facility,” said a statement from Interior Health.

“Anyone unsure whether an emergency room visit is warranted can call HealthLink BC at 811, or visit www.HealthLinkBC.ca for non-emergency health information from nurses, dietitians and pharmacists 24 hours a day, seven days per week.”

Interior Health said these service disruptions may be avoided if adequate staffing is available.

“Interior Health recognizes that these changes may have a significant impact on the community and that transparent notification is important,” a statement from the health authority said.

“Our teams remain committed to working to cover these shifts right up to the day of each potential service interruption. If coverage is secured and an interruption is avoided, we will provide an update to the community.”

All other inpatient services will be available at the Dr. Helmcken Memorial Hospital during the ER closure.

Recruitment efforts in Clearwater are currently underway, with hopes to have two doctors recruited by this fall and two more by next spring.

by Elora McCormack

Clearwater ER to face two more closures in under one week

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