Northern Health has temporarily expanded hours and services at the Tumbler Ridge Health Centre to support the community following this week’s tragic events.
From Feb. 13 through March 6, the health centre will operate daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., including statutory holidays. Drop-in appointments with mental health clinicians will be available each day, while nurse practitioners, supported by physicians, will provide primary and urgent care. Laboratory and X-ray services will also run during the extended hours.
Northern Health Communication Office Eryn Collins told Tumbler Ridgelines Saturday the hours at the health centre have been extended to support the community in accessing services at this difficult time.
“I do not have specific numbers of additional staff, as there will be staff rotating in and out of the community in the coming weeks,” she said, adding further updates will be forthcoming.
Emergency department hours remain unchanged, operating from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Residents requiring emergency care outside those hours are advised to call 911 for transport to the most appropriate facility.
Northern Health says it will continue to assess community needs and provide updates on services and hours in the coming weeks.
A free NH Connections shuttle has been introduced to support travel between Tumbler Ridge and Fort St. John, via Dawson Creek and Chetwynd. The shuttle is available to the public and health-care staff. Schedules are posted on the NH Connections website.
Additional staff have been deployed to ensure service coverage and provide relief for local workers. Mental health and psychosocial supports have also been expanded through Northern Health, other B.C. health authorities and partner agencies.
Support resources include B.C.’s Mental Health Line at 310-6789, the 988 Suicide Crisis Helpline, and regional virtual and community mental health services.
MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCE LINES
- BC’s Mental Health Line at 310 6789
- 9 8 8 Suicide Crisis Helpline (call or text)
- Bereavement and Grief Support Line 1-877-779-2223
- Kid’s Help Phone, available by texting CONNECT to 686868
- KUU US Crisis Response Service at 1 800 588 8717 for culturally aware support for Indigenous peoples
- Northern Health virtual and community mental health services 1-844-645-7811
