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Provincial booking system for appointments with pharmacists going live

Starting Thursday, June 29, 2023, people can book an appointment to see a pharmacist through a new provincial online booking system, making it even easier and more convenient to access the health care they need.

On June 1, 2023, pharmacists’ scope of practice was expanded to allow them to prescribe for 21 minor ailments and contraceptives and as of June 27, 2023, more than 25,000 people have seen a pharmacist for an assessment.

Toxic drug alert: Fort St. John

Northern Health and FNHA logos

There has been an increase in overdoses reported in Fort St. John linked to stimulant use causing deep sedation requiring hospitalization and lengthy monitoring.

This is a general overdose alert, substances circulating in the Northeast region are very toxic. Please take care and share this alert widely.

New hospital in Dawson Creek moves forward

People in Dawson Creek and area are one step closer to better access to care as a preferred proponent has been selected and the contract signed, with construction starting in July for the new Dawson Creek and District Hospital.

In co-ordination with Northern Health and Infrastructure BC, Graham Design Builders LP has been named the preferred proponent on the project. Graham Design Builders LP will be responsible for completing the design and building the new hospital.

Northern Health Board selects new President & CEO

After an extensive international recruitment process, Northern Health’s Board of Directors has selected Ciro Panessa as the next President & CEO of Northern Health (NH). Ciro will be starting in the role on September 5, 2023.

Health hazard advisory: Jack of clubs tailings and visitor centre shorelines

Due to historic mine tailings contamination, Northern Health advises the public to avoid contact with sandy areas and sediment in wading areas along the shoreline of Jack of Club Tailings Beach and Visitor Centre Beach in the District of Wells. Please see the attached map for more detail about the affected advisory areas.

Toxic drug alert: Dawson Creek

Northern Health and FNHA logos

There has been an increase in overdoses in Dawson Creek linked to a blue colored drug sold as “down.” This drug causes sudden overdose and memory loss, this happens when the drug is smoked and injected.

Please take care, drugs move throughout the North, share this alert widely. We have included safety recommendations below.

Northern Health responding to Northeast evacuation orders and alerts

Northern Health is preparing in response to expanded evacuation alerts and orders resulting from wildfire activity in the Peace region and preparing accordingly for any impact on local health services.

At this time, all NH facilities in Northeast BC remain open, including hospital emergency departments in Fort St. John, Fort Nelson and Dawson Creek.