Emergency room doctor Kaitlin Stockton has confirmed reaching a resolution with the Fraser Health Authority to settle a legal dispute over her alleged unfair termination following her attempts to alert patients about issues at two hospitals where she was employed. Stockton expressed her commitment to advocating for a safe environment where medical professionals can freely address systemic problems impacting patient care without fear of reprisal. While she did not disclose specific settlement terms, Stockton expressed relief at the conclusion of the process.
In June, Stockton initiated legal action against Fraser Health in B.C. Supreme Court, seeking $500,000 for wrongful dismissal and damages, citing what she described as a toxic workplace environment characterized by exhausted medical staff facing patient violence and concerns about speaking out. The lawsuit highlighted an incident on November 18, 2024, when Stockton and colleagues warned patients about the critical situation in the emergency room at Eagle Ridge Hospital.
Stockton alleged that she was effectively dismissed through actions that compelled her resignation. Following the dispute, Stockton transitioned to Vancouver Coastal Health, receiving significant support from fellow healthcare professionals. She engaged with Health Minister Josie Osborne and legislators, discussing evidence-based solutions and improved management practices to enhance healthcare operations and safety.
Fraser Health acknowledged the settlement without elaborating on specifics, emphasizing a commitment to fostering a supportive culture for staff and medical professionals to voice safety concerns and advocate for system enhancements in a collaborative manner.
