Doctors Manitoba has developed a new resource to provide rural residents with more information about accessing healthcare this summer.

In a Friday press release, the physician's advocacy group says they have ‘serious concerns about the stability of health care across rural and northern Manitoba.’

Dr. Candace Bradshaw is the President of Doctors Manitoba. ​“Our new public resource Rural​Care​.ca will help Manitobans be aware about how to access rural care, including how to plan ahead and what to do in a medical emergency.“

The Southern region of Manitoba has 17 hospitals, but six ERs are expected to have reduced hours and six have been closed long-term.

Doctors Manitoba says that of the 68 hospitals and health centres in rural and Northern communities, 27 Emergency Rooms are anticipated to be open 24/7, 23 ERs run with reduced hours or temporary suspensions and 18 ERs have been closed for more than a year and are not expected to reopen this summer.

Doctors Manitoba says they will update the resource weekly over the summer to assist Manitobans with accessing medical care.

Because closures can occur with short notice, Manitobans should seek out current information from local regional health authorities, and remember to call 911 or the local emergency number for a medical emergency.