Cadaver & Simulation Education 

Over the past six months, the IH CaSE (Cadaver and Simulation Education) program has revolutionized emergency medical training across Interior Health. The cadaver lab at UBCO, the first of its kind in BC, has equipped 23 KGH emergency physicians with hands-on practice in high-stakes, life-saving procedures. “The cadaver lab has allowed us to maintain competency with rare but life-saving procedures and will save save lives,” says Dr. Jared Baylis. Demand is strong, with interest from Penticton, Vernon, Kamloops, and a request to train 80 emergency residents province wide.

“When experienced doctors take five hours out of a packed schedule and call it time well spent—you know you’ve built something that matters,” adds Dr. Neil Long. 

DBS (Deep Brain Stimulation)

KGH is on track to become a centre of excellence for brain health, bringing life-changing care closer to home. Patients with Parkinson’s disease are able to access local follow-up for deep brain stimulation (DBS), a transformative therapy that helps regulate abnormal brain activity. 

Previously, all post-surgical DBS care required travel to Vancouver, often at personal cost and risk. With aging patients facing barriers to regular care, local access means better outcomes, fewer complications, and a dramatically improved quality of life. 

More than 100 DBS patients live in the Interior Health region who can access the critical follow-up care they need right here at home, all because of donor generosity. 

Upstream

This community initiative is preventing school disengagement, youth homelessness, and mental health challenges by reaching youth who may not show visible signs of risk just yet. Upstream connects students and families with preventative supports. 

In 2024, over 1000 students were surveyed and 350 received tailored support. Of the students involved in the project, 100% reported feeling better about themselves, better able to cope with emotions, and that they are doing better in school. 88% reported feeling more comfortable in school. Upstream is bridging the gap between school staff and local service providers, and fostering well-being and resilience.