LAC LA BICHE - From Jan. 3-10, those visiting the emergency department at the William J. Cadzow Healthcare Centre in Lac La Biche may be unable to see a doctor during certain hours of the day and night due temporary disruptions in service.
According to Alberta Health Services (AHS), the William J. Cadzow Healthcare Centre was unable to secure physician coverage for several days in early January.
Because of this, the hospital’s emergency department will be temporarily without onsite physician overage during the following times:
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4 p.m., Friday, Jan. 3 to 8 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 4
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4 p.m., Monday, Jan. 6 to 8 a.m., Tuesday, Jan. 7
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4 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 7 to 8 a.m., Wednesday, Jan. 8
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4 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 9 to 8 a.m., Friday, Jan. 10
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4 p.m., Friday, Jan. 10 to 8 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 11
If coverage is found, this disruption to the emergency department may be cancelled, according to information from AHS.
“This is a temporary measure, and AHS is working hard to ensure residents continue to have access to the care they need during this time,” states AHS.
Nursing staff at the William J. Cadzow Healthcare Centre will remain on-site in the emergency department, providing triage, assessments and referrals for patients to alternate emergency departments in nearby communities, when necessary.
“We are 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,” says AHS.
In the event of an emergency, patients are asked to contact 911.
Residents of the Lac La Biche area are also reminded to contact Health Link at 811, which is available on a 24/7 basis for non-emergency health-related questions.
“EMS will remain available to the community and will work with the local healthcare centre to ensure residents continue to have access to the emergency services they need,” says AHS.
