REGINA — The Regina Urgent Care Centre (UCC) is reducing hours once again this weekend.
The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) announced on Friday that the UCC will shorten hours from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, March 15, and return to regular hours of operation between 8 a.m. and 9:30 p.m. on Monday, March 16.
Over the past two months, Regina’s UCC has either closed or reduced its hours 11 times (Jan. 17, Jan. 18, Jan. 25, Feb. 20, Feb. 21, Feb. 22, Feb. 24, Feb. 28, March 1, March 7, March 8).
In a recent interview, the SHA said most physicians working at the care centre aren’t primarily staffed there.
“They may have partners in their practice who are exploring other options, have health issues, family issues, etc,” said Dr. Alan Beggs, deputy chief medical officer with the SHA for integrated Regina health.
The UCC operates a staggered system, which can identify gaps in available physicians weeks in advance.
In those cases, the SHA will contact physicians for availability.
“But, we do have sort of red lines where we have to make decisions with respect to, for example, this weekend, and we'll make those decisions well in advance so that we can effectively communicate with the public,” said Beggs.
Beggs admitted to the risks of staffing shortages over the next few months.
"[So, our goal] is to manage those potential risks moving forward to try and mitigate any closures.”
While the UCC isn’t operating, patients experiencing medical emergencies should call 9-1-1 or proceed to the nearest hospital emergency department at:
- Regina General Hospital – 1440 14th Avenue, Regina; or
- Pasqua Hospital – 4101 Dewdney Avenue, Regina.
Patients with non-medical emergencies can access care by:
- Call HealthLine 811 – For professional health and mental health advice available 24/7.
- Visit a walk-in clinic – Check local clinic hours as weekend schedules may vary.
- Connect with your pharmacy – Some pharmacies may be open and can assist with minor health concerns.
