Update from Alberta Health Services (AHS):
Alberta Health Services (AHS) is extending the temporary change to hours of service at Swan Hills Healthcare Centre, due to a lack of registered nursing staff and an inability to secure temporary coverage.
Until 7 a.m. August 31, 2022, the Swan Hills Healthcare Centre will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and closed overnight, from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. This will allow existing staff to provide consistent service for twelve hours each day, during the times when the majority of emergency department and outpatient visits occur.
In-patient admissions will be paused, with the exception of two designated supportive living beds that can be opened if staffing becomes available to support them. Signage will be placed at the front door stating the closure and advising patients who have presented to the ED to call 911. EMS is located nearby.
This is a temporary measure and AHS is working hard to ensure local residents continue to have access to the care they need during this time.
EMS calls will be re-routed, when necessary, to Westlock Healthcare Centre (118 km), Whitecourt Healthcare Centre (80 km) and Slave Lake Healthcare Centre (116 km.) Patients are asked to call 911 if they have a medical emergency during this time.
Residents are reminded to call Health Link at 811, which is available 24/7 for non-emergency health related questions.
We are thankful for the support of surrounding healthcare centres and medical staff and would like to thank the community for their patience and understanding during this time. AHS continues to aggressively recruit healthcare professionals for rural areas. AHS has several initiatives underway to help support recruitment efforts including northern incentive programs as well as working closely with practicing professionals and the community. The Alberta Rural Health Professions Action Plan is also in place, aiming to improve rural medical services for communities, support rural practitioners and recruit new talent.