Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville MLA Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk has commented on the most recent closure at the Fort Saskatchewan Community Hospital.
Earlier this month, Alberta Health Services (AHS) announced that the obstetrics unit at the hospital would be closed between December 18 to 29 due to staff absences.
This forced expecting parents to travel to the Sturgeon County Community Hospital in St. Albert.
“On December 20th I met with representatives from AHS as well as the interim site director for the Fort Saskatchewan Community Hospital," said Armstrong-Homeniuk. "In this meeting, I expressed my concerns regarding the closure of the Women’s Health Unit at the Fort Saskatchewan Community Hospital."
"AHS explained to me that there are many recruiting challenges in the health care field, and they are working diligently to provide a full staff complement to all hospitals."
It was added that the local OBGYN has worked together with patients to develop alternative birthing plans in the event of their absence.
The unit is expected to reopen on Thursday (Dec. 29).