Specialists across BC voice support for Kamloops OB/GYNs

BC maternal specialists are standing behind the seven doctors resigning in Kamloops.

In an open letter to Interior Health and Ministry of Health leadership, 130 doctors say the resignations at Royal Inland Hospital are concerning but they were predictable.

The obstetrician-gynecologists also won’t be participating in the health authority’s temporary coverage plans or supervising new hires until working conditions are changed, according to the letter released to the media by the BC Conservative Party.

“These physicians have long advocated for better access to care in Kamloops, yet despite years of engagement, their calls for change have been ignored,” the letter reads.

It was penned by Dr. Chelsea Elwood, vice-president of BC Women’s Health, and Dr. Stephen Kaye, a UBC professor of obstetrics and gynacology, with support from 128 other specialists across the province.

It comes after seven specialists in Kamloops resigned their hospital privileges following a failed effort to negotiate with the province and Interior Health.

Interior Health said their resignations triggered a transition phase and recruitment drive. With a dozen replacements now eyed to replace them, most aren’t yet approved to work in Canada, but the health authority is aiming to have them working early next year.

The doctors have cited unsafe work conditions and long hours, putting patients at risk, while they balance private practices with hospital duties.

While Interior Health said the seven doctors rejected a “generous” offer from the ministry, the doctors have said their top concern remains “a manageable workload and recruitment.” It’s not clear whether Interior Health planned to recruit more to assist the seven doctors or whether it will following potential replacements.

According to the open letter to Interior Health CEO Sylvia Weir and Health Minister Josie Osborne, doctors have been “dismissed” after raising alarms about a “looming maternity crisis.”

“We urge the health authority and the Ministry of Health to abandon this reactive approach, acknowledge the systemic failures that led us here, and work in good faith with the Kamloops OBGYNs to find a sustainable solution,” the letter reads.

BC Conservative MLAs said it’s an “alarm bell” that should get the province back to the negotiating table with the Kamloops doctors.

“Women should never have to question whether help will be there when they need it most,” Kamloops-Centre MLA Peter Milobar said in a news release.