Island Health Urgently Seeks Staff for West Coast General Hospital
Island Health has issued an urgent call for staff to support patient care at West Coast General Hospital in Port Alberni. The request comes amid staffing shortages that could force the hospital to divert patients to other facilities.
Staffing Urgency at West Coast General Hospital
An internal email revealed the critical situation facing West Coast General Hospital. According to the message, if staffing levels are not met between December 10 and 31, patients will be redirected to other Island Health centers. This decision comes only weeks after the Critical Care Unit at the hospital was closed due to insufficient staff.
Community Concerns
Local resident Jeannie Hepner expressed her worries about the situation, emphasizing the difficulties patients face accessing timely care. “You can’t get into a doctor quickly these days either,” she noted.
- Location: West Coast General Hospital, Port Alberni
- Staffing Period: December 10 to 31
- Previous Closure: Critical Care Unit
Penny Cote, a representative of the Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District, mentioned that efforts are ongoing to address the challenges the hospital faces. “We’re working with doctors, nurses, and community members to ensure our hospital remains operational,” she stated.
Island Health’s Measures
To attract staff, Island Health is offering additional income, accommodation, and travel funding. If shifts remain unfilled, the hospital may function similarly to the Oceanside Urgent Care Centre in Parksville, where patients are assessed for care levels and possibly transferred elsewhere.
Official Statements
B.C. Health Minister Josie Osborne encouraged patients to continue visiting the hospital. She emphasized that the communication about staffing needs is a standard protocol to highlight urgency and attract healthcare professionals. “It’s vital that West Coast General Hospital stays open,” Osborne stated.
In a statement, Island Health reiterated its commitment to ensuring continued patient care at West Coast General Hospital, affirming that while inpatient services may be challenged, its emergency department will remain operational.
