Northern Ont. hospital to close emergency department for Christmas and Boxing Day

Norhtern Ont. ER to close over Christmas North Shore Health Network has announced another emergency department closure over the holidays – once again at its Thessalon site.

A physician shortage is again forcing the closure of the emergency department at the Thessalon Site of the North Shore Health Network.

The ER will be closed for 48 hours on Christmas Day and Boxing Day, closing from 8 a.m. on Dec. 25 and reopening at 8 a.m. on Dec. 27.

The emergency department will only be reopened for 24 hours before the staffing shortage closes it again at 8 a.m. on Saturday Dec. 28 until Sunday morning at 8 a.m.

"The North Shore Health Network continues to investigate all possible options to provide safe access to care," the hospital said in a news release Saturday.

“Every effort will continue to be made.”

Anyone requiring immediate medical attention should call 911, the hospital said. Ambulances will be re-routed either to the hospital's sites in Blind River or Richards Landing-Matthews, or to the Sault Area Hospital.

Non-emergencyhealth advice and information is available by contacting Health811 by calling 811 or 1-866-797-007 toll-free. Individuals can also chat live with health advisers online.

"(We) would like to thank the community for your continued patience and understanding during this time as we work with our partners toward sustainable resources to serve your health-care needs," the release said.

“NSHN is committed to keeping the community informed regarding this situation.”

For more information, visit the North Shore Health Network’s website or social media page.