May 4, 2022
WHITECOURT — Alberta Health Services (AHS) is extending a temporary pause in obstetrical services at the Whitecourt Healthcare Centre due to limited physician resources.
Obstetrical services will remain paused at Whitecourt Healthcare Centre until June 8.
“This extension is necessary as we work to recruit additional physicians with obstetrical skills, as well as locum coverage,” says Stacy Greening, Chief Zone Officer with AHS North Zone. “Patient safety is of utmost important to us and we apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.”
This decision does not impact any other services offered at the hospital.
Obstetrics is a high-risk practice that requires a team of experts with specialized skills. Whitecourt is currently experiencing a temporary shortage of physicians who can provide obstetrical services at the time of delivery for expectant moms.
All pregnant patients are being contacted directly through their family physician to ensure they have the support they need, including having a plan in place for where they will safely deliver their babies. Patients will be able to receive postnatal care for themselves and their infant(s) with their usual family physician in Whitecourt.
“We continue to work closely with our patients to provide the care they need through their pregnancy and will be referring them to the care of a colleague in Edson or a community of their choice for their delivery,” says Dr. Jane Ojedokun, a local physician and Community Medical Director in Whitecourt.
Obstetrics services will be resumed as soon as possible should physician resources be available before June 8. The temporary pause has been in place since April 8.
Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.
