BC Conservative Kelowna-Mission MLA Gavin Dew is calling for the immediate resignation of Interior Health CEO Susan Brown, citing what he describes as a growing crisis within the region’s healthcare system.
“There’s a crisis happening right here and right now, and we need change right now,” Dew said. “It’s not really possible to turn around an organization on your way out the door.”
Brown is set to retire in six months, but Dew argues the system can’t afford to wait. His call for action follows a temporary closure of Kelowna General Hospital’s pediatric unit due to a doctor shortage — a situation that has triggered public warnings from health-care workers and physicians about deteriorating conditions.
“Every time we hear from the Ministry or Interior Health, they’re talking about hiring new doctors or nurses. They’re not focused on retaining people who are working in the system now — or those who’ve already left,” Dew said.
Dew has sent a formal letter to Health Minister Josie Osborne urging her to intervene if Brown does not step down voluntarily. He’s requesting that an interim CEO be appointed to lead Interior Health until a permanent replacement is found.
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In response, Osborne issued a statement expressing her support for the current leadership team.
“I’ve communicated my full expectations and support to Interior Health’s board of directors and senior leadership,” Osborne said, adding that the Ministry of Health is prepared to provide a neutral mediator to assist with collaboration if needed.
“At all times — and especially times like this — it is vital that we all work together on solutions, both short-term and long-term. Attacking individuals publicly does nothing to help move us forward. We remain committed to supporting the dialogue and processes in place, and to building a stronger health-care system that works better for frontline workers and patients,” said Osborne.
Dew remains unconvinced.
“By the time we’re having the kinds of crucial conversations needed to reset the organization — that’s spring or summer of next year,” he said. “People here cannot wait six months, nine months, 12 months to get this organization back on track.”
In a statement to Global News, Brown said that she appreciates Osborne’s support.
“I’m committed to finishing my term strong and dedicated to providing the frontline care teams the tools they need to support patients and their families,” she said.
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