Times Chronicle Staff
Limited physician availability prompted the closure of the Oliver hospital’s emergency department (ED) on July 17.
Interior Health advised residents that the ED was subject to “diversion” until 6 p.m. on Sunday because there were not enough doctors to staff it from noon to 6 p.m.
During the temporary change in operations, residents who needed emergency care were advised to call 911 or visit the emergency department at Penticton Regional Hospital. They could also call HealthLink BC at 8-1-1 if they were unsure if they needed emergency care.
Interior Health reported that the last time South Okanagan General Hospital was on diversion was March 8, 2020 due to limited staff.
Interior Health told the Times Chronicle that it recognizes that interruptions to emergency department services are concerning to the community. It noted that medical leaders in the South Okanagan are doing everything possible to maintain full coverage.
“We also continue to actively recruit for additional physicians.”
Interior Health said it appreciates the commitment of local physicians (and staff) to patients and thanks everyone who has stepped forward to help cover emergency department shifts.
