Despite the obstetrics unit being closed for two days, a statement from the Collingwood General and Marine Hospital (CGMH) insists there's no staffing shortage, only some sick staff.
The unit dealing with pregnancies, labour and delivery was closed from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on June 10 and 11.
"This situation is an isolated incident related to sick calls, not a result of hiring or retention issues," reads a statement provided by the hospital on behalf of president and CEO Michael Lacroix.
Despite multiple requests on June 10 and 11, the hospital did not grant an interview. The communications staff sent an emailed statement this afternoon (June 11) and put out a news release last night (June 10) around 9:30 p.m.
The obstetrics unit was open at night from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m.
Those who came to the hospital for obstetric situations while the unit was closed were assessed and transported to other hospitals if it was safe to do so. A public notice from the hospital suggested those who could go to a different hospital during the day for obstetrics care should do so.
"Although it was unprecedented for CGMH to temporarily close our unit, patient safety will always be prioritized," reads the hospital statement.
The news release sent last night suggested patients could "seek assistance at nearby hospitals such as RVH in Barrie, Soldiers Memorial Hospital in Orillia, or Brightshores in Owen Sound."
Attempts were made, according to the hospital, to find replacement staff, but obstetrics is a specialized field and requires nurses to be familiar with the hospital's obstetrics unit. The unit was closed after no replacements were found.
Lacroix' statement notes there are no current vacancies for the hospital's obstetrics unit and that the unit is appropriately staffed. The two-day closures were the result of staff members scheduled to work the day shifts calling out sick.
The hospital's website includes one temporary part-time job listing for a registered nurse in obstetrics.
"We assure our community that this is an isolated situation due to sick calls and is not indicative of a broader staffing issue," reads the email statement.
The unit is slated to reopen tonight (June 11) at 7 p.m. and no closures are anticipated for Wednesday.
