RED LAKE – The Margaret Cochenour Memorial Hospital has found a locum doctor to take a night shift on Friday.
On Tuesday, the residents of Red Lake were informed that their emergency room would have to close from 8 p.m. Thurs. evening to 8 a.m. Friday morning.
As hospital administration scrambled to fill the time slot with anyone who could take over emergency services, it was beginning to seem unlikely they would find anyone in time.
However, on Thursday morning, according to the hospital's Facebook page, officials announced they were able to secure locum coverage for the 12-hour period.
“Please be advised that we have been able to secure locum coverage for the 12-hour ED closure that was supposed to occur tonight!” reads the post. “Therefore, the Emergency Department will remain open, during this time.”
Red Lake residents expressed relief, taking to social media to offer thanks to the locum doctor who picked up the shift.
“That’s good news. Thank you to the locum that stepped up for the coverage," commented Sheila Tietz.
“Thank you to the locum!” said Ashley Lesnick-Gillespie.
However, Margaret Cochenour Memorial Hospital’s staff shortages are far from over.
The hospital is still currently seeking an emergency department physician to cover night shifts at end of July and throughout August.
“We do anticipate further closures / potential closures, in the coming weeks,” the hospital post reads.
“The Red Lake Medical Associates, the Hospital, and the Family Health Team will continue to exhaust all options to secure coverage and explore possible alternative care models. We will communicate all relevant information to our community and partners, as we learn more.”
