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Significant shifts are expected within the Interior Health Authority (IHA) as Susan Brown, the long-standing CEO, announces her retirement scheduled for the end of 2025.
Having dedicated 14 years to the organization, with the last seven years as its leader, Brown’s departure signals a pivotal moment for the healthcare landscape in the region.
Paul Adams from the BC Rural Health Network recognized Brown’s influence, stating, “She’s certainly provided a lot to communities both internationally and here in B.C.”
Throughout her tenure at Interior Health, Brown achieved several noteworthy milestones, including the establishment of British Columbia’s first urgent and primary care center in Kamloops in 2018. Under her leadership, an additional ten centers followed.
Her stewardship also included the enhancement of specialized cardiac and stroke services at Kelowna General Hospital, the greenlighting of the Kamloops Cancer Centre, and collaboration in creating the Centre for Health System Learning & Innovation, all aimed at improving local healthcare access and fostering innovation.
Health Minister Josie Osborne expressed her gratitude, emphasizing that Brown’s extensive contributions, starting from her early days as an emergency nurse at Vancouver General Hospital to steering a significant health authority, have left a profound legacy across British Columbia.
However, the timing of Brown’s retirement raises concerns. Adams pointed out that, while the pandemic is now behind us, the healthcare system in the Interior remains precarious. He highlighted recent emergency room closures in rural areas as indicators of ongoing challenges.
“We are witnessing closures across the province, so we’re not unique in that aspect,” Adams remarked. “Nevertheless, the situation in the Interior persists and may deteriorate. Improving the recruitment and retention of healthcare professionals in rural locales is crucial.”
The obstacles extend beyond staffing issues. Adams noted the persistent difficulties facing both primary and specialized care and expressed that new leadership might usher in a more community-centered approach to healthcare. He stated, “We need to build teams of care. We need to attach people to places of care. That work is necessary — and we need a change in the model.” He hoped for a leadership transition that would foster greater engagement with communities, reflecting their specific healthcare needs.
Osborne assured that the challenges related to rural healthcare will continue to be addressed under new leadership. “Equitable access is pivotal for our government and for me personally, so we are committed to enhancing healthcare access for individuals in rural communities,” she affirmed.
Until the conclusion of next year, Susan Brown will remain in her role as CEO, allowing the Board of Directors to initiate the search for her successor.
Source
globalnews.ca