Kelowna Pediatric Unit Closure Sparks Outrage and Action
For the first time since the pediatric unit at Kelowna General Hospital shut its doors, Interior Health CEO Susan Brown is speaking up. The closure has triggered a wave of frustration among parents, doctors, and local leaders, and Brown is clear: her team is listening and ready to act.
Community and Leaders Voice Concerns
“I’m hearing extreme frustration, so our job is to unpack that, understand what it is and get it sorted,” Brown told Global News. Her words come as Conservative MLA Kristina Loewen calls the situation a crisis. “I think it’s a failure to plan as well, failure to recruit doctors. I think it’s been years in the making,” Loewen said. “I’m outraged—the warning signs were all there.”
Across the region, parents, doctors, and municipal officials are echoing these concerns. The closure is seen as a symptom of deeper issues, including staff burnout and tough working conditions.
Staffing Challenges and Resignations
About 20 pediatricians serve the Kelowna area, but only six remain at the hospital. Over the past year, many have resigned, pointing to burnout and difficult conditions as their reasons. Brown insists the hospital is not unable to retain staff, but acknowledges recent departures from the pediatric department. “We will be digging into what has happened over the last few years,” she said.
Interior Health Steps Up with New Resources
Brown is not just listening—she’s taking action. Interior Health has submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Health to fast-track support for pediatric care. The plan includes funding for pharmacists and neo-natalists, addressing the very resources physicians say they need.
The health authority is also reaching out to community pediatricians, including those who have resigned, in hopes of bringing them back. “We have a new pediatrician coming to KGH over the summer and two accepted offers that will come in September,” Brown added.
Reassurance Amid Uncertainty
When asked about the risk of tragic outcomes during the closure, Brown expressed confidence in Kelowna General Hospital’s team. “Kelowna General Hospital has an outstanding reputation. The physicians here are amazing. And I am not concerned about how they deliver care.” However, she could not provide a timeline for reopening the pediatric ward.
