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St. Theresa General Hospital is the primary healthcare facility serving Fort Vermilion and the surrounding remote northern Alberta region, offering a 24/7 emergency department staffed by physicians, registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and respiratory therapists. The ER provides assessment and treatment for major trauma, cardiac events, injuries, and general medical problems using the Canadian Triage and Acuity Scale (CTAS), and can stabilize and arrange transfer to larger centres such as Grande Prairie or Edmonton for cases requiring a higher level of care. With 26 acute-care beds and a broad range of services including laboratory, X-ray, mental health, and maternity care, this hospital functions as an essential full-service community hospital for one of Alberta's most remote northern communities.
Services & Specialties
24/7 Emergency Department, Trauma assessment and treatment, Cardiac event care, General Radiography (X-Ray), Laboratory Services, Maternity and Maternal Child Health, Addiction and Mental Health Services (Adult and Youth), Rehabilitation Services, Palliative Care, Continuing Care (8-bed unit), Home Care, Respiratory Therapy Clinic, Immunization Services (Adult, Infant/Preschool, School), Health Promotion, Alberta Aids to Daily Living Program, Equipment Loan Program, Breastfeeding Clinic, Patient stabilization and inter-facility transfer.
Amenities
Cafeteria (open 9:00 am – 4:00 pm, seven days a week)
Vending machines (available at some sites — confirm on arrival)
St. Theresa General Hospital is the only hospital in the Fort Vermilion area — for life-threatening emergencies, call 911 immediately rather than driving yourself.
The ER uses the Canadian Triage and Acuity Scale (CTAS): the most critically ill patients are seen first. If your condition is non-urgent, be prepared for a longer wait.
For complex or specialized conditions such as advanced cardiac intervention or pediatric subspecialties, the hospital will stabilize you and arrange transport to a larger centre like Grande Prairie or Edmonton — bring any medication lists or prior medical records to speed this process.
If you are unsure whether your situation requires an ER visit, call AHS HealthLink at 811 to speak with a registered nurse before making the trip — especially important given Fort Vermilion's remote location.
Interpreter services are available at the hospital, so non-English speakers should not hesitate to request assistance upon arrival at the ER.
What to Bring
Government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver's licence)
Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) card
List of current medications, dosages, and allergies
Any relevant medical records, test results, or referral letters
Health benefits or supplemental insurance information
Emergency contact information for a family member or caregiver
Comfortable clothing and a warm layer (hospital rooms can be cool)
Snacks, water, and a phone charger for potential wait times
Frequently Asked Questions
Does St. Theresa General Hospital have a 24/7 emergency department?
Yes, the emergency department at St. Theresa General Hospital in Fort Vermilion operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is staffed by physicians, registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and respiratory therapists.
What happens if I need specialized care that St. Theresa General Hospital cannot provide?
As a small rural hospital, St. Theresa General Hospital is equipped to stabilize patients with serious conditions and coordinate transport to a higher-level facility such as a hospital in Grande Prairie or Edmonton for advanced care including specialized surgery, cardiac intervention, or pediatric subspecialties.
Does St. Theresa General Hospital offer mental health services through the emergency department?
Yes, the hospital offers Addiction and Mental Health services for both adults and youth. Emergency mental health concerns can be assessed in the ER, and the broader facility has dedicated mental health and information, promotion, and prevention programs.
Are there maternity and labour and delivery services at St. Theresa General Hospital?
Yes, St. Theresa General Hospital provides maternity and maternal child health services, including a breastfeeding clinic. Given the remote location, expectant mothers are advised to discuss their birth plan with their healthcare provider well in advance.
Is there an on-site laboratory and X-ray at the Fort Vermilion hospital?
Yes, both laboratory services and general radiography (X-ray) are available on-site at St. Theresa General Hospital, supporting emergency and outpatient care without the need for patients to travel elsewhere for basic diagnostic testing.
What are visiting hours at St. Theresa General Hospital?
General visiting hours are Monday through Sunday, 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm. If you are visiting a patient in the emergency department or a specialized unit, contact the hospital at 780-927-3761 to confirm current visiting guidelines.