AHS says that due to an unexpected gap in physician coverage, the Rocky Mountain House Health Centre Emergency Department (ED) will be temporarily without a physician from 6 p.m. on Wednesday, July 3, until 7 a.m. Thursday, July 4.

As a result, adds AHS, the department will be temporarily closed beginning at 4 p.m. Wednesday in order for patients in the department to be seen and treated by a physician while coverage is available.

During the closure, nursing staff will remain in the department to assess any patients who present to the site. They will provide first aid where needed and refer patients to alternate care facilities in surrounding communities, including the Myron Thompson Health Centre in Sundre, Rimbey Hospital and Care Centre, and Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre.

EMS will transport patients to other sites as needed.

“Anyone requiring emergency medical care during this time is asked to call 911,” says AHS. “EMS calls will be re-routed to surrounding facilities. All other services at the Rocky Mountain House Health Centre will continue to operate as normal during the ED closure. Physician support for inpatient units is not impacted.”

AHS says it appreciates the support of surrounding health care centres and would like to thank the community for its patience and understanding during this time.