The health authority says the hospital is dealing with higher patient volumes, leading to longer wait times and putting extra strain on the emergency department.
In the ER at Fort St. John Hospital, one doctor sees about 80 patients a day, and a single major case like a heart attack, drug overdose, or car accident can throw off the flow and add hours to the wait.
To ease the pressure, Northern Health recommends using non-emergency care options when possible.
Residents are encouraged to see their family doctor for non-urgent issues, while those without one can reach out to the Northern Health Virtual Clinic.
Other choices include booking with a pharmacist, calling HealthLink BC at 8-1-1, or using virtual care programs like First Nations Virtual Doctor of the Day. Emergency services are always available by calling 9-1-1.
-with files from CJDC
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