As doctor shortages force many emergency rooms in Newfoundland and Labrador to close, Eastern Health says it has put extra pressure on emergency departments in the capital. In a statement, the health authority says that both the Health Sciences Center and St. Clare’s Mercy in St. John’s are facing “unprecedented pressures resulting in long waiting times for patients”. To provide much-needed relief to the system, Eastern Health is asking the public to consider “alternative options” before going to the emergency room, such as visiting a primary care provider or clinic. Additionally, residents are encouraged to call 811 NL HealthLine if they are unsure if an illness requires emergency services or if they are experiencing a mental health crisis. However, even this alternative has its problems. A study released by the Medical Association of Newfoundland and Labrador in June said 125,000 people, or about a quarter of the province, do not have access to a primary health care provider or family doctor. Additionally, clinics have not been immune from staff shortages. Concurrent with Eastern Health’s launch, the Mundy Pond Community Walk-in Clinic in St. John’s had reduced opening hours “due to current manpower challenges”. The health authority says anyone experiencing a medical emergency that requires an ambulance should continue to call 911 at this time.
Temporary closure without end
The news comes as a bit of a shock to many residents of the province. The “temporary closure” of the Health Center of Dr. William H. Newhook in Whitbourne recently extended into its 12th week, while a total of 8 emergency departments were closed across the province over the Labor Day weekend. Hilda Whelan, mayor of Whitbourne, spoke to CBC News last week about the health care crisis in her community and others, saying that while she hopes the situation will improve over time, there are many others struggling who need help now “All these people out there not dealing with these issues, they’re getting sicker and sicker and it’s going to take more time and more doctors to take care of them. “Everyone is very, very disappointed,” Whelan said. “The townspeople have been asking her what they should do if an emergency arises. Her answer is simple: ‘All you can do is pray it doesn’t happen.’
