Kelowna General Hospital doctors warn of ‘collapse’ of primary maternity care coverage

The obstetrics and gynecology department at Kelowna General Hospital (KGH) is sounding the alarm, warning that the maternity ward is on the brink of collapse due to a shortage of family physicians. In a joint statement issued by all nine members of the department, they expressed grave concern for the safety of patients and newborns if immediate action is not taken by health authorities and government decision-makers.

The doctors highlighted a critical shortage of family physicians willing or able to provide maternity care, exacerbated by the failure to recruit replacements. They fear that as early as June 1, 2025, the hospital may face a collapse of its primary maternity care coverage, leaving pregnant patients arriving in labor with no doctor available to ensure safe and continuous care during delivery.

Despite their repeated concerns about staffing and support going unanswered, the doctors are demanding immediate action from Interior Health. Dr. Hussam Azzam, the executive medical director for Interior Health South, acknowledged the physicians’ concerns and expressed a commitment to addressing the complex issue collaboratively.

Dr. Charlene Lui, president of Doctors of B.C., explained that family doctors typically handle low-risk maternity cases, allowing obstetricians to focus on high-risk and complex cases. However, with fewer family physicians available, the pressure on obstetricians increases, leading to challenges in providing care during emergencies.

The statement from the doctors at KGH follows the recent extended closure of the pediatric unit at the hospital due to limited physician availability. The ongoing escalation of issues at KGH without concrete solutions from the health authority has raised concerns among healthcare professionals.

KGH, a regional referral center with a high volume of deliveries and a Tier 4 neonatal intensive care unit, plays a crucial role in providing maternity and pediatric care in the region. Dr. Jeff Eppler, an emergency department physician at KGH, highlighted the strain on staff due to shortages, emphasizing the need for additional support.

In response to the situation, B.C. Health Minister Josie Osborne assured parents that critical care services for children at KGH remain open, including the emergency department and NICU. However, B.C. Conservative MLA Gavin Dew described the situation as a “crisis of government neglect,” emphasizing the need for urgent action.

The ob-gyns at KGH have appealed to administrators for support and have proposed solutions to address the staffing shortages. They are urging Interior Health and B.C.’s health ministry to develop a contingency plan to ensure patient care and facilitate the transfer of maternity patients if local care is unavailable.

Osborne acknowledged the challenges faced by pediatricians at KGH and noted the province’s efforts to recruit additional healthcare workers. She announced that two new pediatricians have accepted offers to work at KGH, with the first expected to start in July, providing some relief to the strained healthcare system.