Island Health says the intensive care unit (ICU) at West Coast General Hospital (WCGH) in Port Alberni, B.C., has been closed indefinitely due to a shortage of specially trained doctors and nurses.

The closure is a temporary measure until adequate staffing levels are in place, the health authority added.

The three-bed ICU serves patients on the west coast of Vancouver Island, from Port Alberni to Tofino, including 10 Nuu-Chah-Nulth communities.

"It's a big worry for everyone," said Nuu-Chah-Nulth president Judith Sayers.

"Our people are really concerned that the services aren't available here, making it really hard to go see loved ones that are in there."

In a written statement, Island Health says nothing will change for people in need of emergency medical care in the area.

"The emer

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