Alberta Health Services (AHS) has announced two upcoming temporary closures of the emergency department (ED) at the Rocky Mountain House Health Centre due to gaps in physician coverage.

The first closure will occur today, April 22, from noon until 7 a.m. tomorrow, April 23. The second closure will take place from 6 p.m. on April 27 until 7 a.m. on April 28.

During these temporary closures, nursing staff will remain on-site to assess patients and provide first aid if needed. Patients will be referred to nearby healthcare facilities based on their condition. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) will be available to transport patients to other care facilities if required.

AHS is advising residents that if they are experiencing a medical emergency during these times, they should call 911. For non-emergency health concerns, individuals can contact Health Link at 811, which is available 24/7, or reach out to their family physician.

Other services at the Rocky Mountain House Health Centre, including non-ED medical services, will not be affected by these temporary closures.

AHS officials stated that if locum physician coverage becomes available sooner than anticipated, the ED may reopen ahead of schedule. The community will be notified if that occurs.