Fraser Health reaches resolution with ER doctor

An emergency room doctor who sued Fraser Health for bullying and unsafe conditions has reached a resolution with the health authority.

Dr. Kaitlin Stockton says she finally feels heard.

“I’m definitely happy there’s some closure – I feel heard, I feel seen,” Stockton told The Leader Spirit.

“It’s very unfortunate I had to file a lawsuit in order to be heard and seen.”

Stockton filed a lawsuit against Fraser Health for wrongful dismissal earlier this year.

In her civil claim, she alleged the health authority retaliated against her after she posted a sign at Eagle Ridge Hospital in November 2024.

The sign was suggesting that ER beds were being closed due to overcrowding.

Additionally, it was urging patients to contact the local MLA to advocate for better care.

Stockton’s suit also claimed unsafe working conditions and substandard patient care because of overcrowding and understaffing.

While she says she can’t share any details, she has now reached a resolution with Fraser Health.

“This was about advocating for patient safety and for our health-care system,” Stockton said.

“Advocacy is a core component of being a physician or health-care worker. This is how we protect ourselves, our patients, especially the most vulnerable patients, and the integrity of the health-care system.”

In a statement, Fraser Health confirmed the resolution.

The health authority adds that it remains committed to making its workplaces as safe as possible and to fostering a culture where staff who identify concerns are heard.

Stockton now works at Lions Gate Hospital

“All health care workers have opportunities inside the health authorities to make their concerns known, and they should always do so. It is my expectation that every health authority will listen,” B.C.’s Health Minister Josie Osborne said about the case.

While her fight with Fraser Health has ended, Stockton’s fight to improve the health-care system continues.

She’s been meeting with advocacy groups and politicians – including the health minister – to advocate for change.

“These ideas are not mine, they’re not novel, they’re not igneous, they’re not unique, they’re very basic principles such as transparency, accountability, and independent oversight. Things that are critical for the success of any organization,” Stockton explained.

She is now working as an ER doctor at Lions Gate Hospital, which is run by Vancouver Coastal Health.

She says her experience has been much more positive than at Fraser Health.