Closure of birthing services in Inuvik extended to October

The Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority (NTHSSA) says it's extending its shutdown of Inuvik's obstetrics unit, due to nursing staff shortages.

It had previously suspended labour and delivery services until Sept. 8. Now it says there will be no birthing services at the Inuvik Regional Hospital until at least Oct.15.

In a news release Thursday, the health authoritysaid the service reduction is "related to the continued significant reduction of available, qualified obstetric registered nursing staff."

Patients who were planning to give birth in Inuvikwho are 36 weeks pregnant or more will be contacted and advised to transfer their care to Stanton Territorial Hospital in Yellowknife.

Pre- and post-natal assessments will continue in Inuvik. Anyone in the community who is pregnant and goes into labour during this time is asked to go to the Inuvikhospital's emergency department.

This isn't the first time expectant mothers have been impacted by obstetric unit closures in the N.W.T. Birthing services were alsopaused in Inuvik earlier this year.The obstetrics unitat Stantonwasclosed for monthsin 2021 due to staffing shortages;most women due to give birth in Yellowknifewere forced to travel toEdmonton.

The news release said the health authority is continuing to monitor staffing levels. If the shortages persist, the service reduction at the Inuvik hospital could be extended.

It said all impacted patients will be contacted. Anyone approaching their delivery date who has not been contacted, or needs more information, can call Inuvik Primary Care at (867) 678-8041.