For the sixth month in a row, Chemainus Health Care Centre will have adjusted operating hours due to a physician shortage.
Since August, the Chemainus Health Care Centre has been operating with reduced or no hours on some days.
In January, the reductions or closures will last for the first two weeks, according to Island Health.
Between Jan. 1 and 15, only two days will be open the usual hours – Jan. 4 and 10.
"During the hours when urgent care at CHCC is not open, people should proceed to the Ladysmith Community Health Centre (15km away) or Cowichan District Hospital (20 km away)," Island Health said in a statement. "During the hours when CHCC is not open, Island Health will allocate additional resources to Ladysmith and Cowichan to support staff and patients."
The health authority says it is working to secure additional physician coverage for January.
"Anyone experiencing a medical emergency should call 911 or, if possible, proceed to the nearest Emergency Department," the statement says. "If you are unsure if you are experiencing a medical situation requiring a visit to an emergency department, confidential health information and advice from a registered nurse is available toll free, 24/7 by calling HealthLink BC at 811."
Previously, Chemainus' hours have been altered in August, September, October, November, and December.
Laura Brougham
