Advocating for change in BC’s emergency departments

Doctors of BC has called on the Minister of Health to create an urgent stabilization plan for emergency departments throughout British Columbia. The Section of Emergency Medicine has made a similar call to take immediate action to stem the crisis in the province’s emergency departments (EDs). Many emergency departments are experiencing unprecedented levels of overcrowding and difficult working conditions for all health care staff. These challenges in emergency are often signs of challenges in other parts of the hospital and wider community. Our members have shared their views on the pressing need to act, and soon.

On Thursday, January 23, Doctors of BC President, Dr Charlene Lui, and CEO, Anthony Knight, met with senior Ministry staff. Doctors of BC pressed the crucial importance of taking urgent action in targeted areas including working conditions and staffing, culture and relationships with leadership, and compensation. Doctors of BC also highlighted the need to support both rural and urban EDs. It was also noted that physicians are facing not only challenges delivering patient care, but are personally facing safety issues, or threats in trying to deliver care. The Ministry indicated they are prioritizing the emergency crisis and were receptive to Doctors of BC’s recommendations.

These messages were repeated on January 27 when Dr Lui and Mr Knight had their introductory meeting the Minister of Health – the Hon. Josie Osborne. The Minister was again receptive to the challenges facing hospitals and Doctors of BC’s recommendations. We look forward to hearing from her about next steps to address these concerns.

The next important step is to see plans for action—which Doctors of BC will be following up on with government. Doctors of BC will keep our members informed of any developments as we work towards solutions on your behalf.

If you have any questions, please email View Email Addresscontact@doctorsofbc.ca.