The Sterling Centre walk-in clinic closes on Nov. 15, the last walk-in facility in Vernon. (Submitted photo)

By Pete McIntyre

Long-term plans underway

Interior Health issues advice on accessing care in Vernon with no more walk-in clinics

Nov 15, 2023 | 3:00 PM

Interior Health is outlining the options for patients with no more walk-in clinics left in Vernon.

The Sterling Centre’s walk-in facility on 25th Avenue will shut down as the end of the day Wednesday (Nov. 15) after the doctors that operate it were unable to find solutions to keep it open with Interior Health, the Ministry of Health and the Shuswap North Okanagan Division of Family Practice over the last year. The doctors were seeking assistance with operations, management and staffing.

In a statement to Vernon Matters, Interior Health said it is “grateful for the work that the Sterling Centre clinic has done to support health care in the community.”

“As a private clinic, we recognize the challenges that the team has faced. Unfortunately, we understand that the Sterling Centre Clinic has not taken advantage of the various supports that have been offered through the Ministry of Health, Division of Family Practice and Interior Health partnership group,” the statement from IH read.

Emergency doctors at Vernon Jubilee Hospital recently went public with what they called “grave concerns” about the impact of the clinic’s closure, concerned they don’t have enough doctors or space to handle what could amount to another 120 patients per day at the hospital.

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IH said they are aware of those concerns.

“We will also have ongoing discussions with emergency department physicians at Vernon Jubilee Hospital so we can discuss and address any issues they have directly,” the agency said.

Interior Health said it recognizes the impact of the closure of Sterling Centre Clinic’s for Vernon and area residents and says many people will have questions on what the closure means to accessing care in Vernon.

“While long-term plans are underway, community members can continue to access primary care services through their family doctors, family nurse practitioners or book same-day urgent care appointments at the Vernon Urgent and Primary Care Centre.”

The centre is located at 3105 28th Avenue and the phone number is (250) 541-1097.

IH advised that if a patient is experiencing a medical concern, they can reach out to the triage nurse at the Urgent and Primary Care Clinic to discuss what is happening and get direction on the best way to seek care.

“The triage nurse follows a standardized process to determine what level of care that is needed and offers appointments or care suggestions based on that assessment. For example, they can book you a same-day or next-day appointment within urgent care, recommend that you seek a prescription from your pharmacist or advise you to seek care at the emergency room.”

Patients who already have a family doctor are encouraged to go to them.

Community pharmacies can assist with routine and emergency prescription renewals for contraceptives and medications for 21 minor ailments.

“While this does not replace a family doctor, it is a helpful support network people in B.C. can easily access. Additionally, people can call HealthLink BC at 8-1-1 to speak with a health service navigator, access health services and connect with an 8-1-1 nurse, dietitian, exercise professional, pharmacist or, if applicable, a physician,” Interior Health said.

Anyone experiencing serious or emergent health issues is advised to call 9-1-1 or visit the emergency department at Vernon Jubilee Hospital.