Slocan Valley hospital gets last-minute ER extension amid expected cutbacks

The emergency room in New Denver, B.C., will continue operating around the clock at least until spring, after Interior Health reversed an earlier decision to reduce the ER hours. 

The small community has been suffering from a doctor shortage and has been in discussions with the health authority about recruiting new physicians for the Slocan Community Health Centre. 

In an announcement the mayor said was unexpected, Interior Health announced earlier this week that emergency department hours would be reduced effective Feb. 1 due to the doctor