Temporary service interruption at Dr. Helmcken Memorial Hospital emergency department

July 13, 2024

Clearwater and area residents are advised of temporary changes to emergency department hours at Dr. Helmcken Memorial Hospital due to limited nursing availability.

Emergency services will be unavailable from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 14, 2024. Patients can access care at Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops or 100 Mile House District General Hospital in 100 Mile House during this time.

All other inpatient services will continue as normal at Dr. Helmcken Memorial Hospital.

People in the community who need life-threatening emergency care (i.e., chest pains, difficulty breathing, severe bleeding) should always call 9-1-1 for transport to the nearest available and appropriate facility. 

Anyone unsure whether an emergency room visit is warranted can call HealthLink BC at 8-1-1, or visit www.HealthLinkBC.ca for non-emergency health information from nurses, dietitians and pharmacists 24 hours a day, seven days per week. 

The emergency department in Dr. Helmcken Memorial Hospital is normally open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Stories@IH

Read our latest stories

4 Minute Read
Health & Wellness

Interior Health’s Advance Care Planning: Your Voice, Your Choice video series teaches about the purpose and importance of advance care planning (ACP).

3 Minute Read
Health & Wellness

Derrick has lost more than 80 family members & friends to the toxic drug and opioid crisis. He reflects on grief & loss, and issues a plea for compassion.

4 Minute Read
Community & Culture

Devon has been working in various positions at Interior Health since 2017, and as an administrative assistant to the director of Health System Planning(HSP).

3 Minute Read
Health & Wellness

All 29 of IH's emergency depts. offer Sexual Assault Forensic Examination services. Confidential and compassionate, SAFE starts with We believe you.

5 Minute Read
Community & Culture

Lenora Starr is an Indigenous cultural safety practice lead of St’át’imc Nation advocating for the health and well-being of Indigenous Peoples of the Interior.

7 Minute Read
Health & Wellness

Trauma is a powerful force that can shape a person’s life. Learn what trauma is, and why those who use substances need compassion and understanding.

STAY CONNECTED

Receive news and alert posts, and Stories@IH blog posts, right to your inbox!

mail