ELK POINT - The Elk Point Healthcare Centre emergency department will be without on-site physician coverage for 24 hours starting Thursday, May 13, at 8 a.m.
Alberta Health Services has issued the following statement:
"This is a temporary measure and Alberta Health Services is working to ensure local residents continue to have access to the care they need during this time. On-site physician coverage in the emergency department will resume Friday, May 14, at 8 a.m.
"Nursing staff will remain on-site in the emergency department, providing triage and assessments, and referring patients to emergency departments in surrounding communities, as needed.
"Patients are asked to call 911 if they have a medical emergency. EMS calls will be re-routed to the St. Therese – St. Paul Healthcare Centre, 35 km west of Elk Point.
"AHS is 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.