Physician Staffing Shortage on Haida Gwaii

Over the next few months, Northern Haida Gwaii (Masset) will experience a significant physician shortage, resulting in service interruptions and reduced local medical coverage. As a result, the physicians based in Daajing Giids (Southern Haida Gwaii) will occasionally be required to provide medical support for patients across the entire island.

This situation means that health care providers at both Northern and Southern Haida Gwaii Hospitals will be facing increased workload and pressure, with Daajing Giids physicians stepping in to cover additional emergency and inpatient needs. Despite our best efforts to maintain essential services, there will be unavoidable impacts to patient access and service levels.

Please be prepared for the following changes:

1. Longer wait times for routine medical appointments.
2. Delays and potential temporary closures of the Emergency Department in Masset.
3. Clinic schedule changes at short notice, as physicians are redeployed to ensure emergency coverage.
4. Prescription refills may take longer – please request renewals at least two weeks in advance.
5. Increased reliance on allied health providers (nurses, pharmacists, and the 811 HealthLink line) for non-urgent care and advice. Virtual and after-hours supports are listed below.

The strength of Haida Gwaii lies in how our communities come together during challenging times. We deeply appreciate your patience and understanding as we navigate this difficult period. Your continued support will help us focus on solutions that strengthen recruitment, retention, and long-term stability of health care on the island.

– The Physicians of Haida Gwaii

Virtual and After-Hours Services

You can call 811 to speak with a nurse is available 24/7 to offer advice for any health problem, and to help you decide how urgent your issue may be.

The Northern Health Virtual Clinic also provides access to a family doctor or nurse practitioner to people who do not have a regular provider. The clinic runs between the hours of 10am to 10pm. To book a virtual appointment, call 1-844-645-7811.  

The First Nations Virtual Doctor of the Day enables First Nations people to access a doctor 7-days a week, from 8:30am to 4:30pm. To book a virtual appointment, call 1-855-344-3800.  

Northern BC residents can also book an appointment to see a pharmacist for 21 minor ailments and prescription contraceptives.