Fort St. John Emergency Department closing for fourth overnight diversion since July 12th

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Northern Health has announced a diversion of the Fort St. John Hospital’s emergency department beginning Tuesday afternoon.

The Health Authority posted to Facebook at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 16th, announcing the department would be closing from 4:00 p.m. on the 16th until 5:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 17th.

The reason given for the diversion is “challenges with physician coverage,” the same reason for diversions that also saw the emergency department closed overnight on July 12th, 13th, and 14th.

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.