Expectant parents in Kamloops still have access to maternity care, despite a recent change by a local physician group that has altered how services are delivered in the region.

Interior Health has confirmed that primary maternity care remains available in Kamloops after the Thompson Region Family Obstetrics (TRFO) physician group made the decision to close to new referrals. The move is aimed at preserving physician capacity for 24/7 labour and delivery coverage at Royal Inland Hospital (RIH), the city’s main birthing facility.

“We recognize the significant impact any change in maternity services can have on expectant individuals and families,” said Interior Health in a public statement issued today. “Maintaining access to services is a shared goal between TRFO physicians and Interior Health.”

Emergency and Labour Care Still Available

Interior Health emphasized that anyone in labour should go directly to RIH, where emergency and urgent maternity care will continue to be available. Labour and delivery services will not be interrupted, but depending on staffing levels, some patients may be transferred to nearby hospitals to deliver. If out-of-community care is necessary, support for travel and accommodations will be provided.

Options for Expectant Patients

For those without a current maternity care provider, several options remain:

• Family Doctor or Nurse Practitioner: Patients are encouraged to first contact their family physician or nurse practitioner for care.

• Healthy From the Start: Individuals needing help finding services or support can contact the Healthy From the Start program at 1-855-868-7710.

• First Step Early Pregnancy Clinic: This clinic continues to offer antenatal care for pregnancies up to 30 weeks.

Patients needing guidance on where to seek care or what services are available can also contact the RIH Labour and Delivery unit directly at 250-314-2635.

Acknowledging Community Concerns

Interior Health acknowledged that the change may be unsettling, particularly for those without consistent access to care. The health authority assured the community that it is working closely with physicians and partners to stabilize services and respond to concerns.

“We understand this is a challenging time for many expectant parents,” the statement reads. “We are committed to ensuring safe and timely maternity care for everyone in our region.”

More updates will be shared as additional maternity care pathways are developed in the coming weeks.