Fort St. John Emergency Department closed for second night in a row

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Northern Health has announced a diversion at the Fort St. John hospital for Saturday night into Sunday morning.

According to a post on Facebook from the health authority, the hospital’s emergency department closed at 11:00 p.m. July 13th, and will be unavailable until 5:00 a.m. Sunday, July 14, 2024.

The emergency department was also closed Friday night into Saturday morning.

The listed reason for both closures was “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.