The CEO of Central Health is responding to concerns regarding temporary closures of emergency room services and their facilities.

In a statement, Andree Robichaud explains that a temporary closure of emergency room services means there are no emergency services available at the site, and 911 must be called for an emergency response.

She says any registered nurses on site are only able to provide care to those currently admitted as part of daily, routine care. As well, RNs continue to work their full scope of practice when there is a temporary closure of ER services, but they cannot diagnose a patient’s condition or treat them without a physician’s order.

Robichaud states that the health authority understands and acknowledges the concerns and frustrations which can arise when a temporary closure is put in place. However, she says the work, wellness, and safety of those providing care within their scope of practice must be respected.

Robichaud says temporary closures are an “absolute last resort” when there is no one available who can manage patients that are extremely unwell and in need of hands-on care.

She ends by saying Central Health is working to recruit physicians and other members of the healthcare team, and asks that everyone work together to ” make civility and respect a part of every interaction” during what she calls a “challenging and unprecedented time.”