A team of obstetrician-gynecologists (ob-gyns) at the sole hospital in Kamloops have resigned from their positions, citing severe burnout and the challenge of being in two places simultaneously as contributing factors. The seven ob-gyns at Royal Inland Hospital made the decision to relinquish their hospital privileges on October 11, discontinuing their in-hospital care services for labor, delivery, and caesarian sections.
Initially attributing their mass departure to safety concerns related to workload and recruitment difficulties, the group has now elaborated on the specific issues that prompted their departure. In a recent media statement, they voiced concerns about four main issues: the need to handle simultaneous call and surgical shifts, the struggle to attract more ob-gyns, the imbalance between time spent on obstetrical versus gynecological work, and the resulting burnout.
The ob-gyns disclosed that they often work up to 80 hours weekly, frequently covering multiple 24-hour call shifts per week, totaling up to 48 hours without rest. Over the past five months, they have raised these concerns with the Ministry of Health and Interior Health.
Mark Masterson, the Vice President of Medicine at Interior Health, mentioned that the health authority proposed a 25% increase in compensation, amounting to up to $700,000 annually, which was declined by the group. The health authority’s job posting for a locum ob-gyn in Kamloops reveals a compensation of $7,117 per 24 hours, plus additional premiums for after-hours shifts.
Masterson clarified that Interior Health did not mandate the ob-gyns to undertake simultaneous emergency call and surgical shifts, stating that the group opted for this scheduling model. Health Minister Josie Osborne assured that efforts are underway to recruit more ob-gyns, with discussions ongoing with numerous physicians for potential employment opportunities.
A grassroots group called Maternity Matters Kamloops has emerged in response to the resignations, urging action from the health authority and provincial government to safeguard obstetric and gynecological care at Royal Inland Hospital. The group, comprising local advocates, birth workers, and parents, highlighted the challenges faced by individuals seeking prenatal and maternity care due to the shortage of local care providers.
While acknowledging the critical situation, Osborne reassured the public that necessary care will remain accessible despite the recent resignations. The importance of recruiting and retaining ob-gyns, as well as enhancing the entire spectrum of maternity care, was emphasized by spokesperson Alix Dolson.
The healthcare system’s precarious state on a provincial level, exacerbated by the continuous recruitment struggle for doctors, nurses, and other care providers, was underscored by Dolson. She stressed the need to focus on a collaborative care model that incorporates various healthcare professionals to best support families in need.