Due to a shortage of clinical staff and an inability to secure temporary coverage, the emergency department (ED) at the Rocky Mountain House Hospital and Care Centre will close overnight on the following dates:

• April 1, 6 p.m. to April 2, 7 a.m.
• April 2, 6 p.m. to April 3, 7 a.m.

During these temporary closures, nursing staff will remain on site in the ED to assist patients who present to the facility. Staff will provide first aid as needed and refer patients to alternate care facilities in surrounding communities. Emergency Health Services (EHS) will be available to transport patients if required.

Patients are asked to call 911 in the event of a medical emergency. EHS will continue to serve the community and will transport patients to other facilities as needed, including the Myron Thompson Health Centre in Sundre, Rimbey Hospital and Care Centre, Drayton Valley Hospital and Care Centre, and Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre.

Residents are reminded to call Health Link at 811, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for non-emergency health-related questions. Individuals requiring non-emergency medical care are also encouraged to contact their family physician.

Other services at the site are not impacted by the ED closures.

If clinical coverage is secured for these time periods, ED services will resume and the community will be notified.

Alberta Health Services thanks surrounding health-care centres and medical staff for their support and appreciates the community’s patience and understanding.