SMOKY LAKE - Due to the inability to secure physician coverage, the George McDougall - Smoky Lake Healthcare Centre emergency department will temporarily be without on-site physician coverage for periods of time next week.
The times affected include:
- 7 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 14 to 8 a.m., Wednesday, Nov. 15
- 7 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 15 to 8 a.m., Friday, Nov. 17
"Nursing staff will remain on-site in the emergency department providing triage, assessments and referrals for patients to alternate emergency departments in surrounding communities, as needed," according to Alberta Health Services.
Patients are asked to call 911 if they have a medical emergency. EMS will be available and will be re-routed to surrounding healthcare centres.
Residents can call Health Link at 811, which is available 24/7 for non-emergency health-related questions.
"If coverage is found, disruptions may be cancelled. This is a temporary measure and AHS is working hard to ensure local residents continue to have access to the care they need during this time," says AHS.
"We are grateful for the support of surrounding healthcare centres and medical staff and would like to thank the community for its patience and understanding during this time."
