A group of seven obstetrician-gynecologists at Royal Inland Hospital (RIH) in Kamloops, British Columbia, have collectively announced their resignations from the hospital, sparking concerns among some expectant parents about the future of obstetric care. The doctors attributed their decision to depart from their full-scope ob-gyn practices to safety concerns arising from workload changes and ongoing challenges in recruiting medical professionals.
The physicians, including Hilary Baikie, Jennifer Kozic, Paula Lott, Erin Adams, Michael Hsiao, Rita Chuang, and Christine Sutton, expressed their view that the obstetrics situation in the community, coupled with the imminent departure of the Thompson Region Family Obstetrics group, presented an unsustainable scenario. Consequently, they will cease providing in-hospital services like labor, delivery, and cesarean sections until suitable replacements are secured.
The doctors emphasized the potential impact of the “near total loss” of low- and high-risk obstetrics in Kamloops, urging the Interior Health Authority to enhance support for women’s health services. They outlined plans for a gradual phase-out of patient care, with some physicians intending to continue offering outpatient gynecology services. Additionally, they will implement a phased withdrawal process for in-hospital care and personally liaise with surgical patients on waiting lists to arrange future care arrangements.
Addressing the systemic underfunding of women’s healthcare, the doctors cautioned that RIH might not be the only healthcare center affected by such challenges. Interior Health President and CEO Sylvia Weir assured the public that patient care continuity is a top priority, and collaborative efforts with Perinatal Services B.C. will facilitate a smooth transition over the coming months.
Although the seven doctors declined interview requests from CBC News, expectant mother Brianna Jones expressed apprehension about the impact of the resignations on her upcoming delivery. Meanwhile, B.C. Health Minister Josie Osborne acknowledged the gravity of the situation, emphasizing the need to address healthcare professional shortages, particularly in maternity services. Interior Health has identified potential candidates to bolster ob-gyn positions, and the government is working on enhanced compensation packages and expanding training seats to attract and retain obstetricians.
While the resignations have raised concerns, including from B.C. Conservative MLA Peter Milobar, about the state of maternity care in Kamloops, efforts are underway to mitigate the impact and secure a long-term plan for obstetric services in the region.
