The maternity unit at Ridge Meadows Hospital in Maple Ridge will be closed over the weekend, causing concerns among expectant parents and care providers.
Fraser Health Authority has announced a temporary closure, from 8 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 18, to 8 a.m. Monday, Dec. 22, due to a shortage of OBGYNs. Patients are being redirected to alternative facilities during this time to ensure safe and uninterrupted care for both parents and babies.
Santaya Stander, a doula in the Fraser Valley, expressed worries about the impact of diverting laboring individuals to other hospitals, emphasizing that time is crucial in pregnancy-related emergencies. She highlighted that even low-risk pregnancies can escalate to high-risk situations suddenly.
Fraser Health also cautioned that a similar diversion might occur at White Rock’s Peace Arch Hospital during the holiday period. The health authority explained that these measures are taken to address staffing shortages and unexpected absences, emphasizing the importance of proactive planning.
Patients are advised to contact the respective hospitals before visiting during this temporary closure.