Staffing shortages have lead to a temporary closure and a reduction in hours at the Bow Island Health Centre's emergency department. (Photo: Pattison Media)

By David Opinko

Bow Island emergency department closed for one week, then reduced hours

Mar 14, 2025 | 8:51 AM

Residents of Bow Island will need to look elsewhere for emergency healthcare for the time being.

Alberta Health Services says the emergency department (ED) at the town’s health centre closed on Friday, March 14 at 7:00 a.m. and is set to reopen at 7:00 a.m. on Friday, March 21.

Starting on March 21 and until further notice, the ED will be open from Fridays at 7:00 a.m. to Mondays at 7:00 a.m. The ED will remain closed during the rest of the week.

The change results from an ongoing shortage of clinical staff and an inability to secure coverage, says AHS in a public service announcement.

During the temporary closure, nursing staff will remain on-site to look after acute care patients and long-term care residents. However, admissions to acute care are paused for the time being.

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Anybody in Bow Island requiring emergency care during the closures can phone 911 or attend the Taber Health Centre (57 km) or the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital (57 km).

People with non-emergency health-related questions can phone Health Link at 811 any time.

AHS says it is actively recruiting for positions in the community.

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