The Fort Macleod Emergency Department will be temporarily closed for 24 hours beginning at 8 a.m. tomorrow, Wednesday July 31, according to Alberta Health Services. It will re-open Thursday, Aug. 1, at 8 a.m., and will continue to provide 24-hour service.

AHS cites a lack of physician coverage as the reason for the closure. 

Nursing staff will remain on-site during the closure to provide care for long-term care residents.

Patients are encouraged to call 911 in cases of emergency, and EMS calls will be re-routed to Chinook Regional Hospital in Lethbridge, which is 49 kilometres away.

According to AHS, patients seeking care can access emergency services at the Pincher Creek Health Centre, Cardston Health Centre, Claresholm Community Health Centre or Chinook Regional Hospital in Lethbridge.

Non-emergency health-related questions can go through the 24-hour phone service ​​Health Link at 811, or to family physicians.

“We are thankful for the support of surrounding healthcare centres and medical staff and would like to thank the community for their patience and understanding during this time,” said AHS in the media statement.

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