Coastal Labrador hospital with only virtual doctor has father worried for his son’s life

Residents in Labrador’s southern coast are facing a concerning situation as the Labrador South Health Centre in Forteau now only has access to a virtual doctor, leaving many worried about the potential consequences of not having a permanent doctor on-site.

Dorman Fowler, whose son Silone requires regular medical attention due to being quadriplegic, expressed his fears about the lack of immediate medical care available at the hospital. Silone often needs urgent medical attention when the tube draining his bladder gets blocked, which can quickly escalate into a life-threatening situation. Fowler emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that there is no time to waste when his son’s health is at risk.

Labrador-Grenfell Zone vice-president Joanne Pelley explained that the hospital now relies on virtual services to provide emergency and primary care. While on-site staff can assess and consult with a virtual physician, patients may need to be transferred to another facility if in-person care is required. However, adverse weather conditions could hinder patient transfers, leaving them dependent on the care provided by the on-site staff.

Dr. Gena Budgen, vice-president of medical services, reassured the public that efforts are being made to recruit a physician for the Forteau centre. Despite the success in recruiting doctors in the past, the current situation highlights the need for a long-term solution to ensure residents have access to essential medical services.

Forteau Mayor Dean Flynn expressed his concerns about the impact of not having a doctor on the ground, emphasizing the importance of having immediate medical care available in case of serious accidents or emergencies. Flynn proposed establishing a memorandum of understanding with a hospital in Quebec to ensure residents have access to medical care, especially in critical situations.

Residents are unhappy with the shift to virtual care, as they believe it is inadequate and could potentially put lives at risk. The lack of a permanent doctor in Forteau adds stress to the nurses working at the health centre, leading to concerns about their retention and the overall quality of care provided.

While NLHS is actively looking to fill the physician position in Forteau, the timeline for hiring a doctor remains uncertain. Residents and local officials are calling for immediate action to address the healthcare needs of the community and ensure that essential medical services are readily available. The safety and well-being of residents in Labrador’s southern coast are paramount, and efforts must be made to secure a permanent doctor to provide the necessary care and support.