Renovations to Amherst Emergency Delayed

COVID has claimed another casualty, this time, an entire emergency department.

Nova Scotia Health announced the long-sought renovated ER in Amherst will be delayed once again.

The crew — described as ‘specialized” — working on the renovations at the Cumberland Regional Health Centre have been side-lined by a COVID outbreak.

The facility was just days away from its targeted reopening.

The emergency department was damaged in in a flood from broken water pipes. Services have been provided in a modified area of the outpatient department during the disruption.

Add to that a shortage of staff, particularly among ER nurses, and the disruption has been very difficult for the hospital and the community.

With apologies, Nova Scotia Health asks patients who require follow-up to contact the patient relations line by calling toll-free 1-844-884-4177 or by emailing patientfeedback@nshealth.ca.

People needing less urgent care are reminded of the urgent treatment facilities in Parrsboro, Pugwash, and Springhill. However, you should check www.nshealth.ca/temporaryclosures) for temporary closures as Pugwash and Springhill have both faced limited service in recent days due to staff shortages.

Anyone with urgent medical needs should call 911.

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