With service interruptions and staff morale in the spotlight, Interior Health (IH) CEO Susan Brown says she’s listening and working toward solutions.
In a media release, Brown acknowledged that the health authority is facing serious pressure and staffing challenges. But she says her team is working to fix them.
“Let me be clear. I remain committed to listening to frontline staff and leaders and understanding how our leadership team can better support them in delivering high-quality, team-based care.”
Her statement comes amid ongoing criticism about service disruptions and internal tensions at Kelowna General Hospital (KGH), including the temporary closure of the pediatric unit. Doctors have raised concerns publicly about leadership, staffing, and morale—sparking community frustration and calls for action.
“I acknowledge that IH is facing significant pressures,” Brown said. “There is a growing demand for health care services, here at IH and across the province.”
She pointed to a tight labour market for doctors, nurses, and other professionals as a major cause.
“This has contributed to challenges, including temporary service interruptions in emergency departments and specialized services such as pediatrics and obstetrics,” she said. “I want to acknowledge and thank everyone who continues to show up for patients and families, especially during times of uncertainty.”
Brown noted that she and her leadership team have held “dozens of meetings” with hospital physicians and department heads to better understand the situation. She also acknowledged hearing “concerns about culture” in the emergency and pediatrics units.
“I’ve also seen behaviour that is unproductive and not in alignment with the values of IH – quality, integrity, compassion and safety,” she said.
Brown confirmed the goal is to reopen the pediatric unit at KGH by the end of the current six-week closure period.
She also addressed recent reports about dysfunction at KGH.
“I continue to hear sensationalized misinformation in the media and beyond, but I want our community to know that KGH is, and continues to be, a priority for me and IH,” Brown said.
Brown said that some of the concerns being raised fall outside Interior Health’s jurisdiction. She pointed to physician pay models and service agreements as examples, saying those are negotiated between the Ministry of Health and Doctors of BC.
She added that IH’s focus will stay on providing “safe, high-quality care” and supporting its health care teams.
“As both CEO and a member of our community, I remain committed to that mission, and to leading IH with integrity, transparency, and a deep respect for the communities we serve.”
Kelowna-Mission Conservative MLA has called for Brown's resignation. She announced her retirement earlier this year and will step down in December.
IH Stats:
- KGH’s operating budget in 2025 is $558 million, up 81 per cent since 2020. Includes $250 million in new funding over the last five years;
- Staffing has increased by 600 full-time equivalent positions, a 30 per cent boost since 2020;
- An additional $278 million has been invested in capital improvements from 2015 to 2025.
