Interior Health CEO Steps Down Amid Prolonged Closure of Kelowna Pediatric Unit

The CEO of Interior Health is stepping down as the regional health authority grapples with a prolonged closure of Kelowna General Hospital’s (KGH) pediatric inpatient unit.

Susan Brown, who had announced plans to retire later this year, is leaving her post early, Interior Health confirmed Friday. Her early exit is part of a series of actions aimed at addressing staffing challenges and reopening the 10-bed pediatric unit, which has been shuttered since May 26 due to a shortage of doctors.

“These are significant steps we're taking to stabilize services and restore critical care access,” the agency said in a statement.

Pediatric Unit Closed for Six Weeks

The inpatient pediatrics unit at KGH has been closed since late May, with the health authority announcing a six-week suspension of services due to physician shortages. The closure has sparked concern in the Okanagan region, where families now face longer travel times for specialized care.

Interior Health said it is working closely with the Doctors of B.C. and the hospital’s medical staff association to resolve staffing issues through a joint action committee. A third-party facilitator will also be appointed to make formal recommendations to the board of directors.

Interim CEO Appointed

Sylvia Weir, the current Chief Financial Officer and Vice-President of Corporate Services at Interior Health, will serve as interim President and CEO.

“We remain committed to restoring pediatric services at Kelowna General Hospital and to improving healthcare delivery in the Interior region,” the statement added.

No timeline has been given for when the pediatric unit might reopen, but Interior Health says the issue remains a top priority.