Alberta Health Services says its pleased to welcome a locum nurse practitioner (NP) to the Rocky Mountain House Health Centre.

Officials say the NP will be providing overnight coverage in the emergency department (ED) from 6 p.m. July 2 to 7 a.m. July 3, allowing the Emergency Department to remain open during a gap in physician availability.

During this time, officials say some patients may be diverted to other facilities for higher level emergency care. As always, patients are asked to call 911 if they have a medical emergency. According to AHS, EMS will be available to transport patients if required.

The health agency says this will be the first time that an NP has provided coverage in the Rocky Mountain House ED. However, they have successfully provided this needed service in other facilities across the province.

NPs are advanced practice providers with specialized training in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. They work alongside the healthcare team to enhance patient care. NPs can diagnose, prescribe medications, and manage care independently within their scope of practice.

Other services at the site are not impacted by this temporary change in ED coverage.