The Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority are advising the people of Inuvik of an upcoming suspension of labour and delivery services at the Inuvik Regional Hospital.
This will be a temporary suspension, lasting from October 1st through November 3rd. Anyone in Inuvik who is expecting to give birth during this time, or are at least 36 weeks along, will be contacted and have their care transferred to Stanton Territorial Hospital in Yellowknife. Pre and post natal care will continue at IRH, and anyone who goes into labour during this period is asked to go to the IRH emergency department for care.
This suspension is once again due to the ongoing issue of limited qualified obstetric nursing staff. The need to suspend these services will be continuously assessed and evaluated based on current and expected staffing levels.
The NTHSSA is aware of concerns that this decision has created among residents, and have stated that they are focussed on improving the staffing levels either through new hires or training those who are already employed within the Territory.
All patients who are expected to be affected by this suspension will be contacted as soon as possible.
