‘Extended diversion’ for maternity patients at Peace Arch Hospital

A lack of available pediatricians means pregnant patients planning to deliver at White Rock’s Peace Arch Hospital will be sent to Langley starting Jan. 28.

Fraser health announced the move Friday, citing an “unexpected leave” impacting staffing and the need to “ensure we are able to provide the best and safest care for our patients.” The diversion to Langley Memorial Hospital will remain in effect until the vacant position is filled.

We have implemented this extended diversion to ensure we are able to provide the best and safest care for our patients at any time using our extensive network of hospitals and health care services. Learn more: https://t.co/S0WPZZj08p pic.twitter.com/D1PcDDX4m5

— Fraser Health (@Fraserhealth) January 15, 2022

“While some people will be disappointed by this temporary change as they would like to have their baby born at Peace Arch Hospital for a variety of reasons, Fraser Health is ensuring that all care providers, such as midwives and doulas, who are part of a patient’s care team continue to be part of their delivery team at Langley Memorial Hospital,” reads a statement from Fraser Health.

“During the diversion period, impacted patients will be notified directly by their physicians or midwives to discuss their birth plan and ensure their needs are met”

The health authority also says there are ongoing challenges when it comes to recruiting doctors to fill these positions in smaller hospitals that don’t have dedicated pediatric units.

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Diversions like this one are the last resort, according to the health authority.

“When we are unable to fill gaps in physician availability or other non-medical staff, we reluctantly implement temporary diversions to ensure the safety of our patients.”