Inuvik Regional Hospital temporarily reduces maternity and surgery services this weekend, with some patients directed to Yellowknife.
Service Changes Announced for Weekend
The Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority announced Friday that the Inuvik Regional Hospital will temporarily reduce several clinical services over the weekend. The temporary suspension is scheduled to remain in effect until Monday.
Areas of Care Affected
The reduced service levels will affect labour and delivery, emergency surgery, and elective surgical procedures. The health authority stated that patients with scheduled or expected care needs have already been notified and provided with plans for their continued treatment during the temporary disruption.
Emergency Surgery Transfers
Any patient requiring emergency surgery during the service reduction period will be transferred to Stanton Territorial Hospital in Yellowknife. The health authority noted that coordination for transfers will take place as needed to ensure timely access to care.
Maternity Care Adjustments
Individuals who are 37 weeks pregnant or further along and planning to give birth in Inuvik are being contacted to shift their delivery plans to Yellowknife. However, pre-natal and post-natal assessments will continue to be available at Inuvik Regional Hospital throughout the service adjustment.
Instructions for Pregnant Patients
Pregnant patients who require assessment or who go into labour over the weekend are advised to present to the Inuvik emergency department as usual. The hospital will provide evaluation and guidance, including arranging transfers if required.
Contact for Patients Not Yet Reached
The authority is encouraging anyone approaching their delivery date who has not yet received communication from hospital staff to contact the Inuvik Regional Hospital directly for information and support. The temporary reduction is expected to end Monday, with normal services resuming thereafter.
