Island Health has confirmed that 117 non-union administrative employees have been laid off so far under the provincial “Better Care, Better Value” initiative. The goal of the directive is to reduce overhead costs and redirect more resources to front-line patient care.

The cuts have already eliminated positions ranging from a vice-president and several executive directors to the now-disbanded IHealth project team. Departments such as human resources, occupational health, and internal communications have also been affected. With a hiring freeze still in place for non-union and managerial roles, more layoffs are expected in the coming weeks.

This move is part of a broader provincial review of healthcare leadership structures, designed to improve efficiency and ensure funding is focused on direct patient services.

Across Canada, healthcare systems are facing similar pressures. Provincial governments are increasingly targeting administrative and leadership positions to protect clinical staffing levels. For non-unionized employees, the trend highlights greater vulnerability, as they often lack the protections unionized workers enjoy.

While administrative roles are shrinking, demand for front-line healthcare professionals remains strong. For Canadian job seekers, the shift signals opportunities in clinical and patient-focused positions, even as administrative career paths in the public health sector become more uncertain.

Have you been laid off by Island Health in Canada? Contact our employment lawyers today. Our legal team offers a free consultation and works on a contingency basis—there are no fees unless you win your case.

Laura Brougham’s original article, “117 laid off from Island Health ‘to date’ with more coming” was published in Chek News on July 29, 2025. Read the Full Chek News story.