🏥 Peace Arch Hospital Temporarily Closes Maternity Ward Due to Staff Shortage

📍 Maternity Services Suspended Again in White Rock

Peace Arch Hospital in White Rock has once again temporarily shut down its maternity ward, impacting families planning to give birth in the area.

The closure means pregnant patients will need to seek care at alternate hospitals across the Fraser Health region until services resume.

⚠️ Ongoing Staff Shortages Behind Closure

Health officials say the repeated shutdowns are due to a continued shortage of obstetrician-gynecologists (OB-GYNs), making it difficult to maintain safe staffing levels.

When coverage gaps occur, hospitals are forced to implement “maternity diversions,” redirecting patients to other facilities to ensure proper care.

These shortages have been linked to physician departures and challenges in recruiting replacements across the region.

🚑 Patients Redirected to Nearby Hospitals

During the closure, expectant parents are advised to contact the maternity unit before heading to the hospital. Staff will guide them to the appropriate facility for delivery or urgent care.

In emergency situations, patients are still urged to call 911 immediately.

🔁 Repeated Closures Raise Concerns

This is not the first time the maternity ward has been temporarily closed. The hospital has experienced multiple service interruptions in recent months, highlighting ongoing pressure on the healthcare system.

Community members and healthcare advocates have raised concerns about the impact on families, especially those who must travel farther for care.

🏗️ Efforts Underway to Restore Services

Fraser Health says it is actively working to recruit more doctors, including both permanent hires and temporary (locum) physicians, to stabilize maternity services.

Officials emphasize that closures are a last resort and are implemented only to ensure the safety of patients and newborns.

🔎 What This Means for Expectant Families

For now, families in the White Rock–South Surrey area should prepare for possible changes to their birth plans.

Healthcare providers are working with patients individually to ensure they receive safe and timely care despite the disruptions.

Stay updated instantly — follow us on Instagram | Facebook | X 

For any issues or concerns, please contact us at issue@surreyspeak.com.

Have a local story or update to share? Become a Citizen Journalist or volunteer with Surrey Speak—your voice matters in shaping local news.

We believe AI is a powerful, positive tool that supports creativity and responsible journalism.

 Contact: marketing@surreyspeak.com