The emergency department at Consort Hospital and Care Centre is closed likely until early September due to staffing shortages, says Alberta Health Services.
The closure began August 17.
“This temporary closure is necessary as there are currently not enough registered nurses available to staff both the emergency department and the long-term care unit at the hospital. As both care settings require onsite registered nurse supports, closing the emergency department allows staffing resources to be dedicated to the long-term care unit at this time,” said Alberta Health Services (AHS) in a statement.
This ensures appropriate staffing levels in LTC to avoid having to move residents to other sites, said AHS.
Emergency Department services are expected to resume Sept. 9.
AHS said it will closely monitor the situation and assess the ability to resume services on a regular basis, with the intent to reopen sooner if staffing levels stabilize.
Patients presenting to the emergency department during regular operating hours – 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Thursday and 9 a.m. to noon on Friday – will be referred to emergency departments in surrounding communities as needed, or to the local medical clinic for follow up with a family physician depending on their needs. EMS will divert patients to facilities in Coronation, Castor or Provost as needed.
Patients are asked to call 911 if they have a medical emergency.
Depending on their needs, patients seeking care may call Health Link at 811, which is available 24/7 for non-emergency, health-related questions.
“AHS is grateful for the support of surrounding healthcare centres and medical staff, and would like to thank the community for its patience and understanding during this time.”
szielinski@reddeeradvocate.com
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