Officials with the Sioux Lookout Meno Ya Win Health Centre say they are working alongside community and healthcare partners in pursuing all possible options to keep services undisrupted in the midst of physician shortages.
The hospital has been working with external supports to find physician coverage to avert service disruptions and potential closures.
Short-term solutions have been put in place but the hospital remains at high risk of experiencing isolated Emergency Department closures.
Officials stress they are dedicated to seeking appropriate solutions and will be maintaining communication with the entire service area.
They add the hospital is thankful for the support and collaboration with external partners, both locally and across the province, who have helped them keep the Emergency Department open up to this point.
President and CEO Douglas Semple says, “We remain focused on seeking long-term, sustainable solutions to ensure everyone in our service area has access to necessary healthcare resources.”
In the event of an isolated closure, the hospital will provide detailed information to our service population that will outline the length of the closure and how people can access critical care services.
The Margaret Cochenour Memorial Hospital in Red Lake has already warned of possible ER closure in August if not earlier.
Lake of the Woods District Hospital in Kenora is warning of Emergency Room closures this summer.
While nothing is imminent, the hospital says the shortage of doctors has been a threat to the health care system in the region for some time.
The hospital says while it is seeking physician coverage to avoid any closures, there is a strong chance, due to circumstances beyond its control, closures are imminent through the summer months.
If the ER is closed, a patient who requires emergency care will be transported to the nearest open Emergency Department.
When a closure is going to occur, the hospital will communicate it widely in the region ensure everyone is made aware and will ensure contingency plans are in place and are being followed.
(With files from Tim Davidson)