Birthing services reopen at Chaleur Regional Hospital

Bathurst, February 4, 2019 – Vitalité Health Network informs the population of the Chaleur and Acadian Peninsula regions that birthing services at the Obstetrical Unit of the Chaleur Regional Hospital in Bathurst reopened at 8 a.m. this morning. 

“Our teams have been steadfast in their efforts to reopen the birthing services in Bathurst, despite the various obstacles encountered along the way,” stated Gilles Lanteigne, President and CEO of the Network. “I would like to thank everyone involved in this file and also take this opportunity to thank the public for their understanding while our birthing services were temporarily suspended,” he continued, adding that these services have been restructured to prevent a similar situation from reoccurring.

Mr. Lanteigne explained that a nursing orientation based on skills cross-training will now be in effect.  “With the full effects of the nursing shortage being felt, we must maximize our employees’ skills by promoting the acquisition of multiple skill sets.  A broader base of expertise will allow all active Obstetrical Unit nursing staff to join forces and ensure that birthing services are available at all times and under all circumstances,” he added. 

Services at the Obstetrical Unit of the Chaleur Regional Hospital were temporarily suspended on October 22, 2018 due to a nursing shortage.