General surgery services will be closed next week at Bluewater Health.
The hospital said because of a general surgeon staffing shortage, it has been forced to close urgent and emergency general surgery services from Sunday, February 23 to Friday, February 28.
During that time, patients requiring acute and urgent general surgery interventions may be transferred to the most appropriate and nearest hospital.
Bluewater Health said partner hospitals have been made aware of the temporary issue.
All elective and scheduled surgeries will continue as scheduled.
The hospital said residents are encouraged to continue utilizing Bluewater Health emergency departments for all acute medical needs.
Patients requiring acute abdominal surgical interventions will be assessed in the emergency department and a determination will be made if a transfer to a partner hospital is required.
Meanwhile, Bluewater Health said recruitment efforts for more general surgeons are ongoing.