In 100 Mile House, the hospital’s emergency department closed temporarily for the second time within a week, prompting the mayor to urge for lasting solutions. The closure lasted from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday, as confirmed by the Interior Health authority. This marked the second shutdown of the emergency department in the new year, following a previous closure that was initially scheduled for 25 hours but ended after 13 hours with secured physician coverage.
Mayor Maureen Pinkney highlighted the ongoing challenge of physician shortages as the primary reason behind the recurrent closures at the 100 Mile House hospital. She emphasized the community’s reliance on the facility due to its location on Highway 97, expressing concerns over potential impacts on residents, particularly during outdoor events and sports activities.
To address the situation, Mayor Pinkney has reached out to B.C. Health Minister Josie Osborne, seeking support and advocating for extended work hours for nurse practitioners to ease the strain on rural emergency rooms. The Ministry of Health acknowledged the need for solutions and mentioned ongoing efforts to integrate nurse practitioners more effectively into emergency departments to enhance care provision.
The closure in 100 Mile House is part of a broader trend seen in other regions across British Columbia. Various hospitals, including those in Lillooet, Delta, Williams Lake, and Chetwynd, have faced temporary emergency room shutdowns in 2025 due to staffing challenges. In response, health authorities have implemented programs to attract and retain healthcare providers, with initiatives such as virtual doctor consultations being piloted in certain facilities to ensure continued access to emergency care services.
