Chinook Hospital sign -- LNN

By Connor Gunn

AHS gives update on staffing levels, acute bed shortages, and operation levels

Jul 23, 2021 | 12:29 PM

EDMONTON, AB – AHS provided an update Friday on its acute care beds, nurse vacancies, and overall operation levels.

Deb Gordon, AHS Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, says many rumours have been swirling around online about AHS’ acute care bed shortage.

Contrary to what has been said online, “currently, 98.5% of all AHS provincial acute care beds are open and available for patients,” says Gordon.

She added that many people have complained about staffing levels, saying there are very few workers.

“In the summertime, it’s common that staffing levels are lower as our healthcare workers take well-deserved personal time or vacation.”

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Resources have been adjusted due to the change in staffing levels within Alberta hospitals.

Gordon says there are more individuals employed right now than ever before due to the pandemic and how it’s changed the world of health.

It was also said that many people believe they have been turned away from hospitals because AHS was overrun with patients, Gordon confirmed this to be inaccurate.

She said, due to the shortage of staff during the summer months, they look to prioritize the quality of care in these acute care bed spaces.

Dr Verna Yiu, AHS President and CEO, says their hospitals are capable of expanding capacity for these spaces.

Yiu assures Albertans that, due to where the pandemic is at currently, there is no worry for hospitalization numbers to grow rapidly as vaccination numbers are steadily climbing.

On the topic of AHS’ “vacancy rate” for staffing, Yiu says there is a 6.8% vacancy rate at the moment which is an increase compared to a normal year.

In a more normal year, the rate would normally sit below six per cent.

AHS says they have been trying to fill those vacancies and will continue to search for more staff.

More information on AHS staffing and other updates can be found at albertahealthservices.ca.

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