During the Canada Winter Games there's a Mobile Medical Unit (MMU) set up at the hospital to offer support to staff and doctors.
The unit , run by the Provincial Health Services Authority, can provide minor treatment to take the pressure off the emergency department at the hospital and in case of a crisis or disaster, the unit can provide additional support as well. The unit is equipped for primary first-aid, critical care and emergency life-saving surgery.
There is a separate clinic set up at the Prince George Civic Centre which will mostly treat athletes, coaches and other games officials.
"When communities host large events having additional medical capacity can help ensure patient safety in the event of an emergency," said Health Minister Terry Lake, in a recent news release. "The mobile medical unit has travelled to events in communities across the province and has proven to be a great tool to provide temporary, high-functioning capacity to support the health of those in attendance."
The Mobile Medical Unit, a 16-metre tractor-trailer that expands to a 1000 square foot facility that has eight to 10 treatment bays. It was first used during the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver, then in 2013 and 2014 at the Kitimat General Hospital during a renovation project.
Along with the medical unit comes a support trailer, that has up-to 72 hours' worth of medical supplies, consumables and other equipment. Although the unit can connect to the hospital's power, city water and waste systems it is self sufficient when needed and has its own power, oxygen, water and waste systems.
The unit was in town last spring for a practice run looking toward the Games.
Training in the unit for staff and doctors took place Thursday and included patient simulation devices.
