Norfolk General Hospital has once again announced the temporary closure of its emergency department due to a shortage of staff.
The closure is in effect from 9 pm on Saturday, December 3 to 7 am on Sunday, December 4.
This is the second time the ED has been temporarily closed in just over two months.
Patients requiring emergency care should call 911.
Those in need of urgent health care will need to seek treatment in the emergency department at the closest hospital.
Other local hospitals are:
- West Haldimand General Hospital, 75 Parkview Road, Hagersville
- Brantford General Hospital, 200 Terrace Hill Street, Brantford
- Tillsonburg District Memorial Hospital, 167 Rolph Street, Tillsonburg
- Haldimand War Memorial Hospital, 400 Broad Street West, Dunnville.
Ambulances will also be diverted to other hospitals, said a media release.
“The decision to close the ED was made to ensure safe care for our patients and clients. NGH remains committed to providing safe and quality care, and we are actively working to recruit physicians and nurses to the communities we serve to reduce temporary closures,” said the release. “This is currently one of NGH’s top priorities. We ask for our community’s patience and understanding as we work through these challenging times.”
The media release also listed options for those not needing emergency or urgent care.
Options include:
- Visiting your family doctor for issues that can wait a day or more;
- Contact Health Connect Ontario to speak with a registered nurse 24/7 via phone or web chat, or visit an urgent care center for health concerns that aren’t life-threatening but can’t wait for a doctor’s appointment.
- People who need health care advice or are unsure about their medical issues can contact Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000 to speak with a registered nurse.
- Contact your pharmacist about getting prescriptions filled.