The Haliburton Highlands Health Services (HHHS) have launched an awareness campaign focused on possible emergency department closures.
The “Stop-Check-Go” initiative urges highlanders to guage whether their illness or injury warrants emegency care, and check if their closest emergency room is open before driving there.
The announcement comes in the midst of ongoing staff shortages which may result in temporary emergency room closures in Haliburton or Minden.
In a June 30 media HHHS said injured patients should “‘stop’ and consider whether self-care can address their concerns (such as twisted ankles, sunburns, minor abrasions, or seasonal allergies) or if they should call their doctor for an appointment (such as for chronic symptoms, back pain, or stomach aches).”
If emergency room care is needed, HHHS said patients should check the status of their nearest emergency room by calling the services’ phone line at 705-457-1392 and using extension 2555 or visiting the HHSS website or social media accounts before going to the nearest emergency room.
Anyone seriously injured should still call 911 for medical attention.
If either Haliburton or Minden’s emergency department is temporarily closed, paramedics will take patients to the nearest emergency care centre.
“HHHS continues its work to retain its current staff, recruit new staff members, and explore all options and alternatives to deliver high-quality care to residents, cottagers, and visitors of Haliburton County and the surrounding area,” stated HHHS.
As of June 30, there have been no temporary emergency room closures in 2022.
