Expecting mothers will again be re-routed away from Ridge Meadows Hospital for maternity services over the coming days.
Fraser Health has announced that due to a temporary gap in obstetrician-gynecologist coverage at the local hospital, a maternity diversion will be in place from Thursday, Jan. 29 at 8 a.m. until Monday, Feb. 2 at 8 a.m.
During the diversion period, patients in labour or with urgent pregnancy-related health concerns will be directed to another hospital – in Langley or Surrey – to receive support from a care team.
Fraser Health said the diversion is a last resort, and it is working hard to recruit more OB-GYNs.
If you have a physician or midwife, that care provider will connect with you prior to your delivery so that you have the information you need and feel fully supported, said the health authority. They will instruct expectant mothers to call the hospital Maternity Unit before they present to the hospital in labour or with a pregnancy concern. Staff will advise them to proceed to the appropriate hospital.
More information is available at Fraserhealth.ca.
There have already been maternity diversions at Ridge Meadows Hospital on Dec. 18 to 22, and from Jan. 15 to 19. There have also been diversions at the Peace Arch Hospital in White Rock.
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