Anesthesiologist shortage at Yarmouth hospital may impact prenatal patients
Posted Apr 25, 2019 06:37:44 PM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
An anesthesiologist shortage means some pregnant women in Yarmouth may have to travel to Bridgewater, Kentville or Halifax to deliver their babies.
“Due to a shortage of anesthesiologists, there may be times over the next few months when it will not be possible to deliver babies, or perform some surgeries at Yarmouth Regional Hospital,” said the letter from the Nova Scotia Health Authority posted to Facebook by Caroline King.
Health Minister Randy Delorey said he was caught off guard by the NSHA's letter, but adds progress is being made.
“There is, as I understand it, an anaesthetist that's coming through an immigration program, arriving in the next week or so in Nova Scotia,” said Delorey. “There's conversations with another anaesthetist that has expressed interest.”
The NSHA offered clarification in a news release sent out lat Thursday morning, saying babies are still being delivered at the hospital as anesthesiologist coverage is secured until the end of May.
It went on to say there may be times after the end of May when support is not available, meaning it may not be possible to deliver babies or perform surgeries.
“We have been sharing information with our Prenatal Clinic patients to keep them informed about our planning around anesthesiology services, and to let them know what services are still available,” said Dr. Cheryl Pugh, Western Zone Head, Women & Children's Health Program, Nova Scotia Health Authority.
“It is important our patients, especially pregnant women and their families, know what to expect over the next few months.”
