Now that Banff’s hospital has successfully filled the nursing positions required to reopen the maternity ward, it will have to keep them.
“It will be something we have to diligently work,” says director Cindy Mulherin.
A nursing shortage led to the suspension of the obstetrics program, prompting a bitter fourteen-week campaign from the community.
During that time residents rallied, moms gave birth to 40 babies in Canmore, and the hospital in Banff busily recruited nurses.
“The hospital has done well trying to mend feelings between hospital and community,” said one vocal and very pregnant resident.
Among the nine new nurses at the Mineral Springs hospital are a recruit from Australia and two graduates from the Bow Valley.
