Tumbler Ridge is planning to introduce a virtual 24/7 emergency care model in the new year as the community works to strengthen access to health services.
The District of Tumbler Ridge said planning is underway with Northern Health on a model designed to provide greater flexibility and continuity of emergency care while responding to changes in physician availability.
More details about how the virtual emergency care model will operate in Tumbler Ridge will be released as planning progresses.
In the meantime, emergency care and mental health supports remain available at the Tumbler Ridge Health Centre every day from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., including weekends and holidays.
The District said health-care services have expanded progressively over the past several months, with increased physician, locum, nursing and allied health staffing helping provide greater stability in emergency and other services.
Two full-time physician positions are currently posted in Tumbler Ridge, while two Nurse Practitioner positions have also been established through the South Peace Primary Care Network and are open for recruitment.
Northern Health has advised the District that the Nurse Practitioner positions are intended to support both primary care and emergency department services.
The District continues to work with Northern Health and will share further information about the proposed 24/7 emergency care model and other changes to local health services as it becomes available.
Northern Health was unable to participate in the joint community update at this time due to restrictions associated with the provincial election period.
The District said it is sharing the information based on its ongoing discussions with the health authority so residents can continue receiving updates about health-care services in the community.
