Kootenay East Regional Hospital District (KERHD) Board Chair David Wilks says he is disappointed to see radiation treatment left out of the upgrades coming to the East Kootenay Regional Hospital (EKRH).
Wilks says the KERHD tried to advocate to the provincial government for radiation treatment to be included in the upgrades.
“I tried my best to get radiation added to this portion of the new build, but it’s not there. It is what it is,” said Wilks.
“I don’t see radiation coming to EKRH any time in the near future, certainly not in my time left on the Board.”
Wilks says he will continue working with BC Health Minister Josie Osborne to find an interim solution.
“We really need to improve how we get people to and from Kelowna for radiation services and how we’re going to recoup their costs better than what we’re doing now,” said Wilks.
“I think we can come to some kind of understanding on how we can make this work. It’s a struggle for people who can’t afford this.”
Wilks says options are limited for East Kootenay residents who need to get cancer treatment in Kelowna.
“On average, it’s a four to five-week stay in Kelowna. It can cost $8,000 to $10,000 and you can get $2,000 back from BC Cancer,” said Wilks.
“We have to find something, and I think there is some willingness from the province to find a way.”
However, Wilks is pleased with the $59 million in funding from the B.C. government that will go to a dedicated oncology and renal building.
“This will be a great addition to the EKRH that will provide additional services for our cancer and renal departments,” said Wilks.
“I’d like to thank Minister Josie Osborne and the Interior Health team for making this happen.”
Wilks says the KERHD is still planning for more major projects to come.
“Once oncology and renal are in their new home, then I think the next thing to focus on at the EKRH is that we really have to improve the emergency room,” said Wilks.
“They are woefully in need of help and I think that is the next thing for the Ministry to start looking at.”
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