Updated July 18, 10 a.m.: As of 9:40 a.m., the ER in Fort Nelson is now open. Northern Health was able to find staff to reopen the emergency room.
Emergency services at Fort Nelson General Hospital will be unavailable for 14 hours on Friday as Northern Health continues to deal with staffing shortages.
According to the health authority, the emergency department will be closed from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday because of limited staffing.
Northern Health said emergency department service levels can change with little notice and is encouraging residents to check its online Emergency Department Status page for the latest information before seeking care.
Residents experiencing life-threatening medical emergencies, including chest pain, difficulty breathing or severe bleeding, are being urged to call 911. BC Emergency Health Services will arrange transportation to the nearest appropriate hospital if needed.
The health authority said local health-care partners are notified whenever emergency department services are interrupted, and signs are posted at the hospital directing patients to call 911 during the closure.
People with non-urgent health concerns can access care through the Northern Health Virtual Primary and Community Care Clinic, which is available daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Appointments with a family physician or nurse practitioner can be booked by phone.
Northern Health is also reminding Indigenous residents and their families that the First Nations Virtual Doctor of the Day program remains available seven days a week for those without regular access to a primary care provider.
Patients across northern B.C. can also book appointments with participating pharmacists for a range of minor ailments and prescription contraceptives, while anyone unsure whether they need emergency care can contact HealthLink BC by calling 811 for around-the-clock advice from nurses, pharmacists and dieticians.
Northern Health thanked residents for their patience and understanding while the temporary service interruption remains in effect.
