Residents of Lac La Biche and surrounding areas are being advised of temporary disruptions at the William J. Cadzow – Lac La Biche Healthcare Centre Emergency Department this month. Alberta Health Services announced that the disruptions are due to an inability to secure physician coverage for certain dates in early August.
The first disruption has already occurred, with the ED lacking physician coverage on August 1 from 4 p.m. to 8 a.m. on August 2. Two additional disruptions are scheduled for Tuesday, August 6 from 4 p.m. to 8 a.m. Wednesday, August 7, and Friday, August 9 from 4 p.m. to 8 a.m. Saturday, August 10.
During these periods, the emergency department will not have a physician available on-site. However, nursing staff will continue to provide essential services, including triage, assessments, and referrals to alternate emergency departments in neighboring communities if necessary.
AHS has assured the community that EMS will remain fully operational, and residents in need of urgent care are advised to call 911. Additionally, other healthcare services, such as Health Link at 811 and local pharmacies, will continue to be available.
“Patients are asked to call 911 if they have a medical emergency. EMS will remain available to the community and will work with local healthcare centre to ensure residents continue to have access to the emergency services they need,” AHS stated.
AHS also mentions that efforts are being made to find physician coverage for the affected dates. If coverage is secure, the planned disruptions may be canceled. “This is a temporary measure, and AHS is working hard to ensure residents continue to have access to the care they need during this time,” said AHS.
