Island Health Restructures: Execs Cut Amid Budget Crunch, ER Wait Times Go Live
Date: July 7, 2025
Sources: Island Health, CHEK News, Campbell River Mirror, Times ColonistRecent reports on Island Health ER wait times have highlighted concerns from various sources, including CHEK News and Times Colonist.
Big changes at Island Health
Island Health has made a surprising move.
Several senior leaders — including a Vice President — have been laid off.
CHEK News reports that this is part of a new plan to deal with money troubles.
The health agency says it’s all about focusing more on patient care and spending less on management.
More on the layoffs from Campbell River Mirror
They also said that the large health records project (IHealth) is finished — so some jobs were no longer needed.
A new tool for emergency visits
While some staff are leaving, Island Health also launched something new:
This online tool shows how long it might take to see a doctor at 8 big hospitals. It updates every hour.
- The time shown means 9 out of 10 patients should be seen within that time.
- The sickest patients still go first.
- You’ll also see links to other places to get care, like urgent clinics and walk-ins.
Read more from Times Colonist
This tool helps people plan ahead and may ease long waits.
See more stories like this in our Health section
Why this matters
Here’s what people are talking about:
| Worries | Good News |
|---|---|
| Losing key leaders during a busy time in healthcare feels risky. | The new tool gives people more info and choice when they’re sick. |
| Will fewer managers make the system slower or weaker? | Less money on admin = more money for patients. |
For more changes in jobs and public services, visit our Work and News sections.
What do YOU think?
Is this a smart way to fix budget problems — or does it raise red flags?
Will the ER tool really help people, or is it just for show?
