Overdose awareness more important than ever

3 minutes

Submitted by Susan Brown, President & CEO, Interior Health

I was recently looking at the website of Moms Stop the Harm, a local advocacy group that is heavily involved in organizing Overdose Awareness Day events. I was reflecting on the last few years; the increasing drug toxicity deaths we’re seeing, the tremendous challenges first responders and care providers face, and the loss communities continue to experience.

The life-changing value of end-of-life conversations

4 minutes

Navigating a conversation about an individual’s serious illness can be a difficult and uncomfortable part of the job for many health-care providers. Some may be unsure about what to ask, or how much detail to share with someone about their condition and prognosis.

Yet, having open, honest and compassionate conversations with people during their illness is essential to help individuals and families make care decisions that align with their personal goals, hopes and wishes.

Temporary service interruption at Barriere and District Health Centre emergency department

1 minute

Barriere and area residents are advised of temporary changes to emergency department hours at Barriere and District Health Centre due to limited nursing availability.

Starting Monday, Aug. 29 at 8:30 a.m., to Wednesday, Aug. 31 at 4:30 p.m., emergency services will be unavailable and patients can access care at Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops.

During this time, all other services will continue as normal at the Barriere Health Centre.

Clearwater ED night closures in effect until Sept. 3

1 minute

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

Emergency services will not be available from 6 p.m. on Aug. 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, Sept. 1 and Sept. 2 until 7 a.m. the following mornings.

The emergency department will be open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on all these dates.

When service is not available, patients can access care at: