Hinton Healthcare Centre will be unable to provide obstetrical services over the weekend due to a lack of obstetrical-trained nursing staff.
Alberta Health Services says the interruption will last from 7 a.m. Friday, April 19 to 7 p.m. Sunday, April 21.
“Maternity patients are still encouraged to present to the Hinton Healthcare Centre for assessment by their obstetrics physician who will work with patients to develop an appropriate plan for care,” said Crystal Browne, director of AHS Clinical Operations for AHS North Zone, in a letter to community stakeholders.
Patients will be diverted to the Edson Healthcare Centre or Edmonton during this time.
Alberta Health Services says this is a temporary measure and is working to ensure residents continue to have access to the necessary care.
"Patient safety is of utmost important to us, and we apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. We only make these decisions when absolutely necessary,” Browne added.
“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.”
