There will be a temporary physician shortage at the Chinook Regional Hospital emergency department. (Photo: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

Temporary staffing reduction at Chinook Regional Hospital emergency department

Jul 12, 2024 | 10:37 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Patients could find themselves waiting a bit longer at the emergency department (ED) in Lethbridge.

Alberta Health Services (AHS) says there will be reduced physician staffing at the ED at Chinook Regional Hospital in July and August.

This is due to a shortage of physicians.

AHS says the department will continue to function normally and patients will be seen based on the severity of their medical condition. Those with less acute conditions may experience longer wait times than normal.

“The health and safety of Albertans remains our number one priority, and we are committed to ensuring that every Albertan receives the care they need, when and where they need it,” reads an advisory from AHS.

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AHS states that they remain committed to recruitment and retention efforts to ensure patients have access to high-quality care.

“We also continue to aggressively explore options to address any reduced staffing that may exist throughout the summer.”

You can see the estimated wait times for emergency departments at some hospitals in Alberta on the Alberta Health Services website.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now

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