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BARRHEAD - The Barrhead Healthcare Centre Emergency Room will temporarily close for 12 hours this weekend from 7 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 8, to 7 a.m., Sunday, Oct. 9.
According to an Alberta Health Services release, the closure is due to the lack of physician coverage.
During the 12-hour period, nursing staff will remain in the ER providing urgent triage and assessments, as well as referrals to alternate emergency departments in neighbouring communities.
Patients are still asked to call 9-1-1 if they have a medical emergency. Emergency medical services will still be available within the community and patients may be re-routed to the Westlock Healthcare Centre (41 kilometres away) or the Whitecourt Healthcare Centre (99 kilometres away).
Depending on their needs, patients seeking help at the hospital may also be made aware of services available at local pharmacies. As well, residents can make non-emergency medical-related inquiries by calling 8-1-1.
“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,” the release states.
