Physician shortage leads to temporary closures at emergency department

Port Hardy Hospital’s emergency department will see temporary overnight closures this week because there are not enough physicians available.

Island Health says the closures will happen between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m. starting on Oct. 25 and going until Friday morning. They add it will continue to be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

All other inpatient services will continue as normal at the hospital.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, Island Health says to call 911 or go to the Port McNeill emergency department if possible. Protocols are in place to get patients transported to the best site.

If you are unsure, they say to call HealthLink BC at 811.

Island Health says they realize the situation is not ideal and they apologize for any inconvenience.