The Fraser Health Authority announced the departure of Dr. Victoria Lee as its President and CEO, effective immediately. This decision, which was described as mutually agreed upon by both Dr. Lee and the board of directors, marks the end of her six-and-a-half-year tenure, during which she led the organization through significant challenges and changes.
Dr. Lynn Stevenson, who is well-recognized for her extensive experience in health administration, has been appointed as the interim President and CEO. Jim Sinclair, Chair of the Board, expressed gratitude to Dr. Lee for her leadership, stating, "We would like to thank Dr. Lee for her leadership over the past six and half years and on behalf of everyone at Fraser Health we wish her well.".
The announcement came as Fraser Health has been under scrutiny for various operational issues, including allegations of poor emergency care conditions and complications related to patient access to health records. These controversies have led to increased calls for accountability from health authority leadership.
During her time at the helm, Dr. Lee was instrumental in steering Fraser Health through the tumultuous COVID-19 pandemic. Her leadership coincided with remarkable transformations within the organization, including substantial investments exceeding $15 billion aimed at upgrading facilities and bolstering health services. Fraser Health also engaged in various innovative health strategies, such as the establishment of digital health initiatives and partnerships focused on planetary health.
Dr. Lee expressed her sentiments about leaving the organization: "I have filled with immense pride and gratitude for the remarkable achievements we’ve accomplished together at Fraser Health over the past 15 years," reflecting on her commitment to improving the health outcomes of the communities served.
Efforts to create comprehensive change within Fraser Health have been evident under Dr. Lee's watch. Notably, the organization has been working on the construction of a new hospital meant to alleviate pressure on existing facilities. The anticipated completion date for this project has recently shifted to 2030, indicating the challenges faced throughout the health infrastructure development process.
With Dr. Stevenson stepping up as interim CEO, Jim Sinclair reassured stakeholders: "I’m grateful Dr. Stevenson will be joining the organization and the Board will be working quickly to recruit a new permanent president and CEO as soon as possible." This indicates the board's commitment to maintain stability within the organization amid leadership transitions.
Dr. Stevenson brings more than three decades of health systems leadership experience to her new role, having held esteemed positions previously as Associate Deputy Minister of Health and various executive roles within Island Health and BC Cancer. Her appointment is anticipated to continue the progress initiated by Dr. Lee and maintain focus on patient care and health innovation.
Fraser Health remains one of the largest health authorities within British Columbia, operating 12 hospitals and demonstrating significant operational resilience during times of change. The transition period is seen as pivotal, with stakeholders hopeful for sustained leadership and direction as the search for Dr. Lee's permanent replacement commences.
The circumstances surrounding Dr. Lee's departure continue to resonate within the community, and many are watching closely as Fraser Health navigates this leadership adjustment. Enhanced transparency and communication from the board are anticipated, alongside continued improvement efforts to address any service delivery issues.
Dr. Lee’s legacy includes transformational projects aimed at enhancing community health, and her tenure will be remembered as one marked with significant achievement amid complex challenges. The board’s next steps will be closely monitored, ensuring the focus remains on delivering quality healthcare across the Fraser Health region.
Dr. Stevenson’s interim leadership is expected to provide the necessary stability as Fraser Health embarks on the process of identifying its next permanent CEO. This leadership change brings forth the opportunity for new innovations and initiatives to emerge, benefiting the health authority and those it serves.