Make it another six weeks for the reduced hours at the Ste. Anne Hospital emergency room. 

Six weeks ago it was announced their hours would be reduced from 24/7 to 8am to 8pm. Dr. Denis Fortier, Vice-President of Medical Services with Southern Health, says they are still experiencing a shortage in doctors.

On the plus side, Fortier notes people seem to be getting the message of only going to the emergency room for emergencies. "We would have expected that the numbers wouldn't have changed that much but really the numbers have changed," Fortier indicates.

Taking into account the reduction of hours, Fortier says the number of patients that come through the E-R is now half of what it was before.

Meanwhile, Fortier says they are working to acquire more doctors for the hospital in Ste. Anne. He adds this has also given their step a much-needed break to catch their breath.

"Not so much for emergency services but for the primary care services, the Seine River Medical Clinic, will be getting two new physicians to join them sometime in the new year."

Fortier notes at this point they have not seen any significant negative impacts on patient care. He also points out that the E-R in Steinbach has not seen a huge spike of patients in relation to this reduction of hours.

In a release, Southern Health states all ambulances will continue to be redirected to other emergency departments until further notice. It is also pointed out that acute care or obstetrical services in Ste. Anne are not affected. 

Fortier says they are taking this six weeks at a time and will now re-evaluate in January when Fortier believes we will hear some more positive news.

Read more: Ste. Anne ER Cuts Hours of Service In Half

Ste. Anne E-R Cutback To Last At Least Six Weeks