B.C. health authority proposes virtual care pilot program to keep small ERs open

Interior Health proposes a virtual emergency care pilot program to tackle staffing shortages in small hospitals across British Columbia's Interior. The pilot will focus on Clearwater, Nakusp, Lillooet, and Princeton, all of which experience low overnight patient volumes. The program enables doctors to share responsibilities through a combination of virtual and on-site staffing, potentially enhancing service availability. Health Minister Josie Osborne lauds the plan as a "forward-looking approach" to strengthen rural emergency services. This initiative responds to the recurring issue of temporary emergency room closures due to insufficient staffing during nighttime and weekends.

The health authority is collaborating with local doctors and staff to refine the project. If successful, this pilot could serve as a model for other rural areas facing similar challenges. The program aims to ensure timely access to emergency care for communities that often struggle with healthcare resources.