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Staff shortages lead to closure of ER at Dr. Helmcken Memorial Hospital

The emergency room will be closed from April 3 to 5
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Dr. Helmcken Memorial Hospital in Clearwater is one of several Interior Health care centres impacted by service reductions. (File photo)

Interior Health has announced an emergency department closure at Dr. Helmcken Memorial Hospital starting Sunday due to an “unexpected” shortage of staff. The emergency department will be closed from 5 a.m. Sunday, April 3 to 7 a.m. Tuesday, April 5.

“Interior Health regrets this temporary change to normal operations,” the announcement reads.

Residents are encouraged to call 911 in the event of an emergency and ambulances will be routed straight to Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops during closure hours. Those seeking medical attention can also visit Royal Inland Hospital, or call HealthLink BC at 811 if unsure of their medical care needs.

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