Fraser Health is warning expectant parents about another maternity diversion at Ridge Meadows Hospital in Maple Ridge. The latest diversion will last from 8 a.m. Thursday until 8 a.m. Monday. Anyone who is in labour during this time is asked to call the maternity unit, where staff will direct them to another hospital for care. Health officials are blaming the diversion on a temporary gap in obstetrician-gynecologist coverage, calling the measure a “last resort.” A website set up by Fraser Health to provide updates on changes to maternity service says they are “actively recruiting” to fill the vacancies, through “national and international efforts.” They say a new physician was recruited to Peace Arch Hospital in May, which has also experienced a number of maternity diversions.
