Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) delegates voted overwhelmingly Sept. 14 to ask the province that emergency rooms and ambulances remain available 24 hours a day.
A resolution before delegates at the annual UBCM convention in Whistler said British Columbians — notably families, seniors, children and people with chronic and acute health care — need immediate access to such services.
The resolution said there is a critical need for additional family physicians, emergency room doctors, specialists, paramedics and nurses across the province.
It asked the government to increase funding and training opportunities for health-care professionals so that all B.C. residents can access an appropriate and necessary level of care.
On Sept. 13, Health Minister Adrian Dix acknowledged the province is in a health-care crisis. He said a transformation of the system is needed.
Also at the convention, Clearwater Mayor Merlin Blackwell told delegates that his community has been hurt by repeated emergency room closures and ambulance shortages.
