Residents in the Smoky Lake area are advised of temporary disruptions at the George McDougall – Smoky Lake Healthcare Centre Emergency Department, expected to occur from April 30th to May 10th. These disruptions stem from challenges in securing physician coverage during overnight hours.
“Due to the inability to secure physician coverage, the George McDougall – Smoky Lake Healthcare Centre emergency department will be temporarily without on-site physician coverage overnight,” stated Alberta Health Services.
The affected dates and times include:
-7 p.m., Monday, April 29 – 8 a.m., Tuesday, April 30
-7p.m., Tuesday, April 30 – 8 a.m., Wednesday, May 1
-7 p.m., Wednesday, May 1 – 8 a.m., Thursday, May 2
-7 p.m., Thursday, May 2 – 8 a.m., Friday, May 3
-7 p.m., Monday, May 6 – 8 a.m., Tuesday, May 7
-7 p.m., Tuesday, May 7 – 8 a.m., Wednesday, May 8
-7 p.m., Wednesday, May 8 – 8 a.m., Thursday, May 9
-7 p.m., Thursday, May 9 – 8 a.m., Friday, May 10
During these periods, the nursing staff will be available on-site to provide triage, assessments, and referrals to alternate emergency departments in neighbouring communities, as necessary, ensuring residents continue to receive necessary care.
In a a medical emergency, residents are urged to call 911, with Emergency Medical Services remaining accessible to the community. Additionally, Health Link at 811 is available 24/7 for non-emergency health-related inquiries.
AHS emphasized that efforts are underway to secure coverage, and disruptions may be averted if successful. They assured residents that this was a temporary measure and reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring continued access to healthcare services in the local community.
AHS encourages Smoky Lake residents to remain vigilant and utilize available resources for any medical needs.
