February 18, 2026
RED FM News Desk
The maternity unit at Peace Arch Hospital will temporarily close its doors once again this week, marking the fourth such closure this year and the second this month. From 8 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 19, until 8 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 23, expectant parents will be diverted to neighboring health facilities for care.
According to Fraser Health, the recurring closures are the result of an ongoing shortage of obstetricians following “unexpected departures” of medical staff. The health authority has been issuing warnings regarding potential staffing gaps at both Peace Arch and Ridge Meadows hospitals since early December 2025.
In a social media advisory, Fraser Health urged patients to take precautions: “If you are in labour or have a pregnancy concern, please call the Maternity Unit first. Our staff will direct you to the appropriate hospital for care.” While the authority noted that six gynecologists were recruited to the region over the past year, and one new physician is expected to join the Peace Arch team this spring, the situation remains precarious.
The health authority emphasized that these challenges are not unique to White Rock, citing a nationwide decline in family physicians offering maternity care and fewer midwives providing full-spectrum services. Additionally, the increasing complexity of maternity cases has placed further strain on available resources.
Fraser Health warned that future diversions may be announced on very short notice, as the unit’s ability to remain open is currently “dynamic” and heavily dependent on unexpected doctor absences or sick calls.
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