Temporary service adjustments are on the way in Northern Health as Covid continues to intensify existing staffing shortages.
That means surgical service postponements, temporary staff re-assignments, and changes to long-term care admissions are on the way.
At Wrinch Memorial in Hazelton, surgical slates will be reduced from 2 to 1 next week, delaying approximately 20 procedures.
In Smithers, the Bulkley Valley District Hospital is following suit, reducing surgical slates from 2 to 1 until January 29th, affecting 10-12 procedures per week.
Situational response teams have been established in Hazelton and Burns Lake, where staffing shortages are being seen across all facilities.
Surgical bookings at the Dawson Creek and District Hospital will see reductions over the next 3 to 4 weeks.
Surgical postponements are also underway, and will continue, at a number of hospitals, including the University Hospital of Northern BC.
Some communities will also see temporary reductions to ambulatory clinics, community care services, and outpatient services.
In long-term care, several facilities in the region have begun pausing admissions, and are operating fewer beds to ensure adequate staffing.
Temporary reductions to adult day programs and non-urgent at home health services are also in place.
All patients directly impacted by the service changes will be contacted by Northern Health to assess impacts and review alternate options.
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