EXTENDED: Ponoka Hospital ER to close again Sunday

Nov 18, 2023 | 9:34 AM

AHS said late Saturday afternoon that Ponoka Hospital’s emergency room will remain closed Sunday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. There is physician coverage overnight tonight, from 5 p.m. to 8 a.m. tomorrow morning.

ORIGINAL – 9 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 18

AHS has announced that the emergency department at Ponoka Hospital will be closed most of Saturday.

A release issued at 9 a.m. Saturday notes it will be closed from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. today, “due to an unexpected lack of available physicians and the inability to secure temporary physician coverage.”

The rest of the AHS statement is as follows:

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“During this time, nursing staff will remain on-site in the Emergency Department providing urgent triage and assessments and referrals for patients.

“Patients are asked to call 911 if they have a medical emergency. EMS remains available and will be re-routed to alternate Emergency Departments in neighbouring communities.

“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.

“Depending on their needs, patients seeking care at the ED in Ponoka may also be made aware of services available through local pharmacies. Residents are reminded to call Health Link at 811, which is available 24/7 for non-emergency health-related questions.

“We are thankful for the support of surrounding healthcare centres and medical staff and would like to thank the community for their patience and understanding during this time.”

by Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

EXTENDED: Ponoka Hospital ER to close again Sunday

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