Rocky Health Centre. (rdnewsNOW file photo)

By Adam Ophus

recruitment ongoing

Six beds closed due to staff shortage at Rocky Health Centre

Jul 5, 2021 | 11:14 AM

Once again, the impact of staff shortages is being felt at the Rocky Mountain House Health Centre.

In a release, Alberta Health Services says effective July 5, six acute care beds are temporarily closed.

AHS notes the health centre currently lacks Registered Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses, adding that the decision was a last resort.

The vacant positions are being filled as quickly as possible, according to the health authority.

With twenty-seven beds still open, AHS says patient care at the location will be unaffected. The full complement of 33 beds should return in roughly a month, they predict.

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Back on May 12, a doctor’s illness forced the Rocky Health Centre to close its emergency department for a night.

The current disruptions are not expected to impact the emergency department, and AHS reassures the public that any patients presently in hospital will continue to receive quality care.

Alberta Health Minister Tyler Shandro declared last October that additional recruitment for Rocky Mountain House is a priority.

Residents are reminded to call Health Link at 811, which is available 24/7 for non-emergency health-related questions.

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