Fort St. John Emergency Department closed overnight Friday

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Northern Health has announced a diversion at the Fort St. John hospital.

According to a post on Facebook from the health authority, the hospital’s emergency department closed at 11:00 p.m. July 12th, and will be unavailable until 5:00 a.m. Saturday July 13, 2024 at 5:00 a.m.

The listed reason for the diversion is “challenges with physician coverage.” 

Only the Emergency Department is affected.

While the diversion is active, residents who need “life-threatening” emergency care for issues like difficulty breathing, chest pain, and severe bleeding are advised to call 911, so an ambulance can take them to the nearest hospital in Dawson Creek.

Meanwhile, people with less urgent care needs are advised to book appointments with their primary care provider, or take advantage of Northern Health’s Virtual Primary and Community Care Clinic.