B.C.’s surgical renewal commitment delivers record surgeries

30 May 2024

ADRIAN DIX — Health Minister Adrian Dix Photo: BC Government

B.C.’S surgical renewal commitment delivered more surgeries for patients than ever for one year ending March 31, 2024.

“When we made our surgical renewal commitment to patients, we said we would deliver surgeries that were postponed or not scheduled because of COVID-19, and we did,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health, on Thursday. “We said we’d deliver surgeries fastest to those who need them most and we do. We said we’d change the way surgeries are delivered in B.C. and we have. As our population continues to grow and our health-care system adapts to numerous pressures, our plan to improve access to surgeries for patients is working.”

Key achievements in 2023-24 include:

* The March 2024 Canadian Institute for Health Information report ranks B.C. first in Canada for the per cent of patients meeting clinical benchmarks for cataract surgeries and second nationally for the percentage of patients meeting clinical benchmarks for hip and knee replacements.

* Operating rooms ran 52,614 more hours, a 9% increase compared to the same time frame in 2019-20.

* There were 365,825 scheduled and unscheduled surgeries completed, including 284,844 scheduled surgeries, which is 24,380 more scheduled surgeries compared to the same timeframe in 2019-20. This is 14,939 more scheduled and unscheduled surgeries compared to 2022-23.

* There were 33,950 urgent scheduled surgeries completed within four weeks, a 7% increase compared to the same timeframe in 2019-20.

* As well, 29,709 non-urgent surgeries were performed on patients who waited longer than two times their target wait, a 15% increase compared to the same timeframe in 2019-20.

* The total wait list size is 96,802 cases, a decrease of 3,442 since May 2020 and an increase of 2,962 since March 2020.

* Since April 1, 2023, 692 surgical specialty nurses completed their training. This brings the total number of surgical nurses trained since April 2020 to 1,634.

* Since April 2020, the Province has added new health-care staff to surgical services in B.C., including 189 surgeons, 152 anesthesiologists, 313 perioperative nurses, 12 general physician/family physician anesthetists and 106 medical device reprocessing technicians.

Health authorities have continued to make progress implementing initiatives to increase operating room time and capacity. In January 2024, health authorities delivered the highest number of surgeries ever in one week by delivering 7,952 surgeries between Jan. 28, 2024, and February 3, 2024.

Since starting the surgical renewal commitment, 146 initiatives have been identified by the health authorities to increase capacity. Of the 146 initiatives, 99 are in place, 33 have been completed, eight have been paused and six are yet to be started. In 2024, a further 16 were put in place – three are completed, 13 are ongoing. Overall, these achievements represent the collective efforts of each health authority and a commitment to ensure that operating room hours continue to increase in the coming years.

Examples include:

* Fraser Health opened an additional operating room at Royal Columbian Hospital, Abbotsford Regional Hospital and Peace Arch Hospital.

* Interior Health opened an additional operating room at Okanagan Health Surgical Centre.

* Island Health opened an additional operating room at South Island Surgical Centre and Cowichan District Hospital.

* Northern Health opened an additional operating room at Bulkley Valley District Hospital and Dawson Creek and District Hospital.

* Provincial Health Services opened an additional operating room at BC Children’s Hospital and BC Women’s Hospital, and an off-site dental room at BC Children’s Hospital.

* Vancouver Coastal Health opened an additional operating room at New West Surgical Centre and Sechelt Hospital, and reduced winter and spring break slowdowns at Squamish General Hospital, and winter slowdowns at Sechelt Hospital.

“From this progress report, we can see just how much can be achieved, how quickly we can achieve it and how enduring those accomplishments are when we have clear targets, a tight focus on accomplishment and, as always, an unfailing drive to work together to get more patients their surgery faster by changing the way we deliver surgeries in B.C.,” said Dix.

More student spaces coming to Richmond schools

30 May 2024

A Richmond elementary school will soon have room for 150 more students, as part of the provincial government’s plan to expand schools quicker in growing communities.

“With record population growth, our government continues to invest in schools as more cities like Richmond welcome new students to their classrooms” said Rachna Singh, Minister of Education and Child Care, on Thursday. “Our government is taking action by using innovative solutions like prefabricated designs, which are a faster way to bring the services people need, like schools, to growing communities.”

Recognizing the recent increase of young families living within the Richmond School District, R.C. Talmey Elementary school will have six bright, spacious new classrooms added to the school that will offer comfortable learning environments with their own HVAC systems. All the classrooms will be connected by corridors and students will also have storage for personal belongings.

With $9 million provided by the Province, the new addition is expected to be ready for students by fall 2025. This expansion is in addition to two other elementary schools in Richmond that have prefabricated additions under construction. They are on track to welcome nearly 300 more students this September.

Government has provided more than $174 million for 13 seismic upgrades and partial seismic replacement projects in the Richmond School District over the past seven years. This includes projects at James Whiteside Elementary, William Bridge Elementary and Howard DeBeck Elementary, providing more than 6,000 students with safe places to learn.

“We are thankful for the Province’s investment in our schools as we continue to address the demands of our increasing student population,” said Heather Larson, board chair, Richmond School District. “The additional classrooms at R.C. Talmey Elementary will help us take an important step toward providing the space and facilities our students deserve.”

This announcement is the 16th prefabricated school addition to be announced by the Province in eight months.

Quick Facts:

* R.C. Talmey Elementary will gain six new classrooms, which will create 150 new student spaces by fall 2025.

* Samuel Brighouse Elementary will gain six new classrooms, which will create 150 new student spaces by fall 2024.

* William Cook Elementary will gain five new classrooms, which will create 125 new student spaces by fall 2024.

North Vancouver cautions public after suspicious incident near Westview Elementary

30 May 2024

CRIME POLICE N VAN RCMP Constable Mansoor Sahak — Constable Mansoor Sahak

NORTH Vancouver RCMP are advising the public of a suspicious male that was seen allegedly carrying a knife near a North Vancouver elementary school.

On Tuesday, May 28 at 3:35 p.m., police were dispatched to a weapon’s call at Westview Elementary located at 641 17th Street West. Two callers reported seeing a male carrying what they said was a knife near the school. One of the callers also advised that the male had allegedly approached a female student in an aggressive manner before eventually leaving the area on foot without incident.

Officers conducted extensive patrols in the neighbourhoods surrounding the school but were unable to locate the man. The investigation is currently ongoing and police are exploring all possible avenues to identify the individual involved.

“This was a concerning interaction for the youth, staff and parents of students that attend Westview Elementary,” said North Vancouver RCMP Media Relations Officer, Constable Mansoor Sahak. “We want to assure the North Vancouver community that there is no continued risk to public safety. However, we’re sharing these details to increase awareness and encourage the individual himself, or anyone that may have been in the area at the time, to come forward with more information.”

The suspicious male is described as white, 25-30 years old, approximately six feet tall with a slim build. He may also be unhoused. He was last seen wearing a black hoodie and dark jeans heading in the direction of Carson Graham Secondary.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call North Vancouver RCMP at 604-985-1311 and quote file #24-10340. Anyone who wishes to provide information but who wants to remain anonymous can contact CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

Abbotsford Police’s Project Spotlight results in 224 arrests and weapon seizures

30 May 2024

ABBOTSFORD Police launched an eight-month initiative — Project Spotlight — targeting prolific violent offenders and offenders responsible for random acts of violence in the city. The goal was to make thye streets safer by arresting violent offenders who were released on conditions and by targeting property crime offenders who were using violence during the commission of their crimes and creating continuous financial losses to businesses.

The project was a combined effort of uniformed and undercover officers who used multiple tactics, including surveillance, and vehicle, foot, bike and ATV patrols. The officers worked closely with stakeholders which included Crown Counsel, loss prevention officers and business owners. This project was funded through the Special Investigations and Targeted Enforcement (SITE) program under the provincial government’s Safer Communities Action Plan.

Project highlights:

523 police files initiated
224 arrests (122 were outstanding wanted persons)
weapon seizures (including two loaded sawed-off shotguns, imitation firearms, machetes, hatchets, bear spray, batons, throwing stars, knives, a spiked bat and a crossbow)
recovery of stolen property
drug and illegal cigarette seizures
106 violation tickets issued
8 impaired drivers prohibited from driving
vehicle impounds and one car seized for civil forfeiture

In the first four months of 2023, Abbotsford had a 23.3% increase in crimes against persons. Comparatively, in 2024, after the project’s completion, the rate of increase fell to 6.8%. Police believe this is a direct result of targeted enforcement during this project.

$7.8M in road improvements underway on 32 Avenue in Surrey

30 May 2024

32 Avenue Road Improvements — Photo: City of Surrey

THE City of Surrey has begun $7.8M in road improvements to 32 Avenue from 184 Street to 188 Street to improve traffic flow, prepare for future growth, and increase road safety for all users.

Road improvements on 32 Avenue include repaving and widening the road from two to four travel lanes, a new traffic signal and pedestrian crossing at 188 Street, and a multiuse path on the south side of the street to make it safer to cycle and walk. This is the first of two phases of work along 32 Avenue.

“Roadworks along 32 Avenue mark the beginning of a significant investment in our transportation infrastructure in Campbell Heights,” said Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke. “This $7.8M project will not only improve traffic flow and road safety, but also lay the foundation for future growth and development in our community. This critical investment will create multimodal infrastructure that benefits all users of our roads on 32 Avenue from Highway 15 to 196 Street. I would like to thank TransLink for their contribution toward this important project.”

TransLink is contributing $4.3M towards the road improvements through its Local Government Funding Program, with the rest coming from the City of Surrey’s 2024 Transportation and Utilities Budget.

“These improvements to 32 Avenue will make it easier for Surrey residents to walk, cycle or take transit in their community,” said TransLink CEO Kevin Quinn. “TransLink is proud to contribute investments to local infrastructure through our Local Government Funding Program, but funding for this program is running out. TransLink is fighting for a sustainable funding solution so that we can continue to invest in infrastructure projects like this one.”

The first phase of work on 32 Avenue from 184 Street to 188 Street is expected to be completed in 2025, followed by Phase 2 from 176 Street to 184 Street which is anticipated to be completed in 2026.

Click here ?to learn more about the 32 Avenue Improvements.

Vancouver’s Alcohol on Beaches Pilot returns this weekend

30 May 2024

VPB alcohol on beaches 1 — Photo and map: Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation

STARTING this weekend, Vancouver beachgoers will be allowed to drink at select beaches as part of this summer’s relaunched Alcohol on Beaches Pilot, the Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation announced on Thursday.

From June 1 to September 30, adults over the age of 19 will be able to bring and consume alcohol at the following beaches between the hours of 11 a.m. and 9 p.m.:

* Jericho Beach

* Spanish Banks

* Locarno Beach

*? Second Beach (Stanley Park)

* Kitsilano Beach

* John Hendry / Trout Lake Beach

*? New Brighton Beach

Drinking alcohol is not permitted at the following beaches:?

* English Bay Beach?

* Sunset Beach Park

* Third Beach (Stanley Park)

* CRAB Park Beach

* Beaches along the Fraser River

The success of the Alcohol on Beaches pilot program is dependent on beachgoers doing their part to act responsibly at the beach and being considerate of others.?

When visiting a beach pilot site this summer, please be mindful of the following guidance:

* Don’t bring glass to the beach ? broken glass can cause injury to yourself and others

* Respect other beach users ? be mindful of the personal space of others and keep music and noise to an appropriate volume?

* Properly dispose of trash in a nearby waste bin or take it away with you

* Avoid entering the water with alcohol or if intoxicated?

In support of the program, visitors can expect to see more Park Rangers on hand to provide support and guidance, as well as added waste bins and recycling stations.

Following the success of the Alcohol in Parks pilot in 2021 and 2022, drinking alcohol is also permitted at 31 parks in Vancouver on a year-round basis and 16 summer-only sites between July 1 and August 31.

For more information on where drinking alcohol is and isn’t permitted in Vancouver, visit vancouver.ca/alcohol-on- beaches?

Anti-racism research will help address gaps in government services

30 May 2024

THE Province has released initial research findings into barriers experienced by Indigenous Peoples and racialized people in the public service, schools and health care.

“Racism and discrimination impact people every day,” said George Chow, Minister of Citizens’ Services, on Thursday. “That is why we are taking action to identify challenges and fix gaps, so we can make sure public services work better for everyone in B.C. These initial research findings confirm what racialized and Indigenous people already know and will help us create a more inclusive and equitable province.”

The initial research findings using data from the BC Demographic Survey and other sources indicate:

* systemic barriers for Indigenous and racialized individuals in the BC Public Service, including under-representation as employees, particularly in management and executive roles;

* racialized students tended to be less likely to receive any special-needs designation than the average student in the K-12 system; and

* Indigenous people may be disproportionately affected by diabetes, asthma and mood and anxiety disorders.

Government is working to address these challenges, including:

* improving hiring practices and workplace culture, and working to ensure the people who are shaping and delivering public services reflect the diversity of B.C.’s population;

* increasing support and opportunities for Indigenous and racialized people to succeed in their careers, making sure all students receive the support they need; and

* strengthening health-care services to improve outcomes.

“The existence of systemic racism is not a secret, but without concrete statistics, Indigenous and racialized people have often been ignored when talking about it,” said Mable Elmore, Parliamentary Secretary for Anti-Racism Initiatives. “Thanks to the research being carried out under the Anti-Racism Data Act, we now have clear facts to use as evidence. This information has been and will continue to be invaluable in strengthening the Anti-Racism Act, and our collective efforts to make a fairer B.C. that works better for everyone.”

The Anti-Racism Data Act came into effect in 2022 and requires the Province to publish statistics or other information respecting systemic racism and racial equity by June 1 each year. This is the first release of research findings under the act. Researchers used data from the BC Demographic Survey and other sources.

From June to October 2023, more than 200,000 people filled out the BC Demographic Survey, providing information about their identity, such as race and gender. Survey responses are being used to support the Province’s anti-racism research priorities, which were released in May 2023. Seven research priorities were put forward by the Anti-Racism Data Committee and three by Indigenous Peoples. Results from the survey were used to carry out research in two of the priority areas and will be available for future research.

The Anti-Racism Act, which came into effect on May 16, 2024, requires government to identify and remove barriers affecting Indigenous and racialized people, making it more equitable for them when seeking out government services in hospitals, schools, courts and other public institutions.

Learn More:

To learn more about the Anti-Racism Data Act, view the research findings and actions to date, visit:? https://antiracism.gov.bc.ca/

Toll-free Racist Incident Helpline in over 240 languages ready to provide support

30 May 2024

Premier David Eby, Nanaimo Tour — Niki Sharma Photo: BC Government

PEOPLE in B.C. who witness or experience a racist incident can now call a new helpline to receive trauma-informed, culturally appropriate support in more than 240 languages, the Ministry of Attorney General announced on Thursday.

The Racist Incident Helpline is a toll-free, accessible service established in partnership with United Way BC 211. The helpline was created for people who have been subjected to discrimination based on the colour of their skin, culture, ethnicity or place of origin.

Callers will receive support and guidance, which could include referrals to local community support services, such as counselling or help with reporting to law enforcement.

“Hate incidents are deeply traumatic to victims,” said Niki Sharma, Attorney General. “This helpline opens up new avenues to access supports that matches peoples’ unique needs, whether that means help pursuing legal outcomes or feeling less alone by having someone to talk to.”

Callers will be asked to provide a description of the incident and where it occurred, and whether they would like to disclose basic demographic information.

The collected anonymized and aggregated data will help government better understand where and how racist incidents are occurring in British Columbia. This information will support the Province’s efforts to more effectively combat racism through targeted programs, services and initiatives.

“As someone who has faced the pain of racism, the launch of the Racist Incident Helpline feels deeply personal and profoundly significant,” said R.M., an individual with lived experience who prefers to remain anonymous. “This helpline will not only offer a safe space for victims to share their stories and receive support, but it will also serve as a vital bridge between where we are now and a more understanding, inclusive and united society.”

To help people as effectively as possible, the Province consulted with a variety of groups, such as the Office of the Human Rights Commissioner, law enforcement, municipalities and partner organizations of the Resilience BC Anti-Racism Network. The First Nations Leadership Council, Metis Nation BC and the B.C. Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres were consulted to ensure the helpline’s approach is culturally sensitive and distinctions-based.

“Racism is a painful reality in the communities we call home and we are here to support those affected,” said Jasica Grewal, director of community impact and investment, United Way BC. “The Racist Incident Helpline builds on the success of our existing helpline services, including 211 British Columbia, and is fundamental to our goal of creating healthy, caring and inclusive communities that are safe and welcoming for all.”

Local organizations can apply to United Way BC for funding if they are interested in being part of the helpline’s referral database. Relevant services include:

* low-barrier individual counselling and peer support group programs;

* anti-hate and diversity education, and skills-building programs;

* resilience-building and creative expression workshops;

* creating and distributing educational materials; and

* celebration and awareness-raising events.

“We know that racism can come in many different forms, each of which needs to be addressed and acknowledged,” said Mable Elmore, Parliamentary Secretary for Anti-Racism Initiatives. “Knowing that you’re not alone and that someone is there to help can make all the difference in these situations, which is why the helpline is so important.”

The United Way BC 211 Racist Incident Helpline is available by dialing (toll-free) 1 833 457-5463 (1 833 HLP-LINE).

The helpline is not intended to replace emergency services. People in need of immediate assistance should call 911.

Quick Facts:

* The helpline is operational from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. (Pacific time) on weekdays.

* Outside of these hours, callers can leave a voicemail with contact information for a call back

Learn More:

Learn more about the Racist Incident Helpline here:? https:// racistincidenthelpline.ca

B.C. ensures continued access to COVID-19 medication

30 May 2024

ADULTS at high risk of severe outcomes due to COVID-19 are benefiting from access to nirmatrelvir-ritonavir (Paxlovid) as the Province provides 100% coverage for the drug, the Ministry of Health said on Thursday.

Paxlovid is an anti-viral medication approved by Health Canada in January 2022 for the treatment of mild to moderate COVID-19 in adults at high risk for progression to severe COVID-19 outcomes.

Previously, Paxlovid was covered by the Government of Canada. As it is no longer covered by the federal government, Paxlovid is now covered through BC PharmaCare’s Plan Z, the Province’s universal coverage plan, to ensure continued access to the medication. This provides full coverage for the medication for B.C. residents with an active medical services plan (MSP), as of Tuesday, May 28, 2024.

This change ensures coverage is aligned with clinical evidence and improves patient access to appropriate medications.

It is recommended for people at higher risk of serious illness and hospitalization, such as those who are immunocompromised. Treatment must begin within five days of start of symptoms to be effective and can help prevent symptoms from getting worse. It does not prevent people from getting COVID-19 before or after an exposure.

Since April 8, 2024, a spring COVID-19 booster is available to people in B.C. to maintain and extend protection for themselves and their loved ones against serious illnesses from COVID-19. B.C.’s COVID-19 spring program is focused on providing vaccines to those most at risk of severe COVID-19 illness or complications and people who have not yet received an updated vaccine dose.

However, anyone who feels they would benefit from an additional dose of the XBB.1.5 COVID-19 vaccine can contact the call centre at 1-833-838-2323 to book an appointment or walk into a pharmacy where the vaccine is available.

Learn More:

To learn more about COVID-19 testing and treatment, visit:? https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/ content/covid-19/vaccine/ treatments

To learn about the launch of spring COVID-19 boosters, visit:? https://news.gov.bc.ca/ releases/2024HLTH0036-000506

For more information about BC PharmaCare, visit:? https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/ content/health/health-drug- coverage/pharmacare-for-bc- residents

People who want a notification to book an appointment or who are not yet registered are encouraged to do so by visiting:? https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/ content/covid-19/vaccine/ register

61 suspects arrested, nearly $15,000 worth of stolen goods recovered in Burnaby

30 May 2024

OVER a four-day period earlier this month, Burnaby RCMP’s Community Response Team (CRT), along with members of the Bike Unit, Police Mental Health Outreach Team, Metrotown security and loss prevention officers, led another boost and bust anti-shoplifting operation at Metrotown.

During the latest initiative, 61 suspects were arrested, resulting in 21 new criminal charges being forwarded and nearly $15,000 worth of stolen merchandise being recovered and returned to local businesses.

As many as 12 of the people arrested had outstanding warrants from across the Lower Mainland, including one individual who was found to have an outstanding warrant for failing to comply with the Sex Offender Registry.

“In many cases, officers arrested individuals known to police. In total, five prolific offenders were arrested, as well as 10 suspects with documented violent criminal histories,” said Cpl. Mike Kalanj with Burnaby RCMP on Thursday.

Clothing was the most commonly stolen item over the four-day period, with one suspect trying to walk away with over $2,800 worth of clothing from a retailer and another attempting to shoplift $840 worth of high-end outerwear.

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