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Saanich Peninsula Hospital extends ambulance diversion to VGH and RJH

Pandemic-caused staff shortages see ER transportation diversion extended to Wednesday noon
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It’ll be at least another day before ambulances will bring emergency patients to Saanich Peninsula Hospital in Central Saanich, as staff shortages continue. (Black Press Media file photo)

Due to a staff shortage, the Saanich Peninsula Hospital is extending its diversion of ambulances to other regional hospitals for emergency care until Jan. 5 at noon.

The temporary diversion began Dec. 30 and was initially intended to end Tuesday (Jan. 4) at noon.

In a statement to Black Press Media, Island Health said those who show up to the hospital on their own and require emergency treatment will be seen, but ambulances will not transport patients to Saanich Peninsula Hospital.

Instead, patients will be taken to Royal Jubilee Hospital or Victoria General Hospital should they require emergency transportation to a facility.

“Staff shortages occur due to a variety of factors and health care worker shortages have been exacerbated by the ongoing pandemic,” the statement read. “Ambulance diversion is a last resort, we try our very best to cover shifts but there are times, despite these efforts, that these temporary shortages occur.”

Patients who aren’t sure whether their condition would warrant an emergency room visit, or who need health advice can call HealthLink BC at 811 or visit HealthLinkBC.ca.

ALSO READ: Saanich Peninsula Hospital diverts ambulances to VGH due to critical staffing


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