Due to a temporary shortage of nursing coverage, the Port Hardy Hospital (PHH) emergency department (ED) will be closed for the remainder of August 17, beginning immediately.
In order to cover an increased number of sick calls from local staff, Island Health made arrangements to fly in nursing coverage from out of community. However, air transport has been and continues to be unable to land in Port Hardy due to weather conditions.
PHH ED is expected to re-open as normally scheduled at 7 a.m. on August 18.
During this time of emergency department closure, all other inpatient services will continue as normal at PHH and the adjacent long-term care home.
Anyone experiencing a medical emergency while the ED is closed should call 911 or, if possible, proceed to Port McNeill Hospital ED. Do not go to the ED during the hours it is closed, as this will delay your access to care. Island Health and BC Emergency Health Services have protocols in place to ensure people calling 911 are transported to the appropriate site. Staff will also be outside of PHH ED for the remainder of the day to re-direct anyone arriving on their own.
If you are unsure if you are experiencing a medical situation requiring a visit to an emergency department, confidential health information and advice from a registered nurse is available toll free, 24/7 by calling HealthLink BC at 811.
First Nations communities and individuals can also access the First Nations Health Authority’s First Nations Virtual Doctor of the Day services from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., 7 days a week. Indigenous people and their family members can access the program to address their health and wellness needs. Please call 1-855-344-3800 to book an appointment.
Island Health acknowledges this is not an ideal situation for the community and we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience experienced by this temporary service interruption.