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Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre operates a 24/7 emergency department at 5800 57 Avenue in Ponoka, Alberta, serving patients from the surrounding central Alberta region including communities between Red Deer and Edmonton. The ED is staffed by physicians, registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and respiratory therapists, with triage conducted using the Canadian Triage and Acuity Scale (CTAS) to prioritize the most urgent cases first. In addition to emergency care, the facility offers a broad range of inpatient and outpatient services including surgical, obstetric, psychiatric emergency, and continuing care services, making it a comprehensive community hospital for Ponoka and area residents.
Services & Specialties
24/7 Emergency Department, Cardiac Monitoring, General Radiography (X-Ray), Laboratory Services, Obstetrics Services, Surgical Services, Psychiatric Emergency Team, Endoscopy Services, Respiratory Therapy (Outpatients/Community), Pulmonary Function Testing, Breathe Easy / Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program, Physiotherapy (Outpatients/Community), Occupational Therapy (Outpatients/Community), Speech Language Pathology (Outpatients/Community), Palliative Care, Pharmacy Services, Nutrition Counselling (Adult and Pediatric), Continuing Care Services (24/7 Residential), Addiction and Mental Health Support, Indigenous Cultural Helper Services, Ambulance Bay (24/7), Interpreter/Translation Services.
Amenities
Cafeteria
Gift Shop / Café
On-site Pharmacy Service
Wheelchair Accessible Facility
Interpreter/Translation Services Available on Request
After-hours registration (after 8:00 PM and before 7:00 AM) is handled directly through the Emergency Department — proceed to the ED entrance rather than the main registration desk.
The ED uses the Canadian Triage and Acuity Scale (CTAS), so patients with less urgent conditions should expect to wait while more critical cases are treated first — plan accordingly.
If you require an interpreter or translation assistance, let staff know immediately upon arrival so the appropriate services can be arranged.
Ponoka is centrally located on Highway 2A between Red Deer and Edmonton — if you are travelling from a nearby rural community, confirm road conditions on Highway 53 or 2A before heading in, especially in winter.
For non-emergency health concerns, consider calling Health Link 811 before making the trip to the ED — a registered nurse can help you determine the most appropriate level of care.
What to Bring
Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) card or provincial health card
Government-issued photo ID (driver's licence, passport)
List of current medications, dosages, and allergies
Any relevant medical records, referral letters, or recent test results
Personal health coverage or supplemental insurance information
Contact information for your family doctor or specialist
Comfortable clothing and personal comfort items if a long wait is possible
Phone charger or portable battery, and something to pass the time while waiting
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the phone number for Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre?
The main switchboard number is 403-783-3341. The Emergency Department direct line is 403-704-8317. For life-threatening emergencies, always call 911.
Does Ponoka Hospital have an obstetrics or maternity service?
Yes, Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre offers obstetrics services. If you are pregnant and have concerns, contact your care provider or the hospital directly at 403-783-3341 to confirm current service details and availability.
Is there a psychiatric emergency service at Ponoka Hospital?
Yes, the hospital has a Psychiatric Emergency Team available to support patients experiencing mental health crises. Ponoka also has the nearby Centennial Centre for Mental Health and Brain Injury, which provides specialized mental health and brain injury care, including the Halvar Jonson Centre for Brain Injury.
What hours is registration open at Ponoka Hospital?
Registration is open Monday through Sunday from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Outside of those hours, patients should proceed directly to the Emergency Department, which is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Does Ponoka Hospital offer continuing care or long-term residential services?
Yes, the facility provides 24/7 residential continuing care for individuals with complex medical needs. The care team may include physicians, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, registered psychiatric nurses, healthcare aides, pharmacists, occupational therapists, and recreation therapists.
Is Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the facility is fully wheelchair accessible, with accessible parking available on-site. The building's design also incorporates features such as bay windows and non-institutional finishes to create a more comfortable environment for patients.