ELK POINT – Elk Point Healthcare Centre’s emergency department is finally back to 24/7 service, after staff shortages caused the department’s hours of operation to be reduced to 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. since Jan. 16.
Announcement of the return to full service as of March 31 came late last week, with Alberta Health Services stating, “We are excited that staffing levels have stabilized and we can provide 24/7 services to the community.”
The announcement sent to local doctors and the Healthcare Centre thanked local physicians and healthcare workers for their efforts during the temporary service and emergency department hours reduction and expressed thanks to EMS, surrounding healthcare centres and medical staff that helped to ensure those who needed care continued to have access to it, “even if it required receiving that care in a neighbouring community."
"Please know that your dedication and teamwork is very much valued and appreciated," reads the statement.