The Sacred Heart Community Health Centre emergency department (ED) will be without on-site physician coverage for 24 hours starting at 7 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 20. 

Regular operations will resume Tuesday, Dec. 21 at 7 a.m. 

The ED will also be without on-site physician coverage for 72 hours starting at 7 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 24. Regular operations will resume Monday, Dec. 27 at 7 a.m.  

AHS is working to ensure residents continue to have access to the care they need during these two periods. Nursing staff will remain on-site in providing care for inpatients, with one local physician in the community. Patients are asked to call 911 if they have a medical emergency. EMS calls will be re-routed to High Prairie Health Complex, 50 km away. 

Depending on their needs, patients seeking care at the ED in McLennan may also be made aware of services available through local pharmacies. Residents are reminded to call Health Link at 811, which is available 24/7 for non-emergency, health-related questions. 

AHS is grateful for the support of surrounding healthcare centres and medical staff, and would like to thank the community for its patience and understanding during this time. 

Information provided by Alberta Health Services