Physicians are warning that recent emergency department (ER) closures in rural Alberta highlight deeper problems in the province’s health-care staffing plans. According to the Alberta Medical Association (AMA) president, Dr. Wirzba, replacement coverage is often not available even when locum physicians are arranged well in advance. Both outlets report that locums are commonly scheduled months ahead to cover shifts, but that the anticipated substitute doctors still may not be able to take the placements when needed. The concerns are framed as evidence of weaknesses in how rural health services ensure continuity of care, particularly for ER coverage. The reported issue is not limited to whether coverage is planned, but whether it is reliably delivered at the time shifts are required. The physicians’ message centers on the gap between advance scheduling and actual availability of substitute physicians, which they say can affect access to emergency services for rural communities. The sources describe the warning as part of broader criticism of rural health-care planning as closures continue.