An independent review by Interior Health found that the pediatric service problem at Kelowna General Hospital was years in the making.

The 16-page report by Harbour West Consulting said doctors had been warning about workload pressures for years.

Conservative MLA Gavin Dew said it's good to see the concerns he raised last year were confirmed.

The report said doctors warned Interior Health of a potential crisis, saying improvements were needed to avoid future problems.

The pediatric ward closed in May 2025 and stayed closed for seven weeks.

The review found that poor relations between doctors and Interior Health led to many pediatrician resignations.

This left the department unable to provide services.

The report said sustainability is limited by poor relations and reliance on goodwill.

Dr. Adam Thompson said Interior Health could have addressed problems earlier, before the crisis point.

BC's health minister wouldn't comment on the report, directing questions to Interior Health.

Interior Health said it's focused on rebuilding trust and improving communication between doctors and leadership.

IH's president, Sylvia Weir, said she's working to change how they listen and engage with staff.

Dr. Thompson said he's pleased to see Interior Health taking steps to address problems and rebuild trust.

We'll have to wait and see if these steps work.

Dew said more work is needed to address problems across the health region.

Dew is still hearing from whistleblowers about new issues at Interior Health.

There is still a culture problem and a need for improvement at Interior Health.

Stick to the facts.

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