Families in Cranbrook and surrounding East Kootenay communities now have expanded access to specialized newborn care with the upgrade of the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at East Kootenay Regional Hospital.
Until recently, many families requiring specialized neonatal care had to travel long distances to centres such as Kelowna or Calgary.
Interior Health says the upgraded NICU allows more infants to remain in their community, reducing the need for travel.
Dr. Paul Kahlke, department head of pediatrics at the hospital, said the expanded unit increases local capacity.
“We can now provide specialized care for newborns locally, reducing the need for transfers out of the region,” he said.
The renovated unit opened in early November.
It includes modernized neonatal equipment, private areas for families, updated security features, dedicated hand-hygiene stations, and additional workspaces for staff.
It serves infants born at 34 weeks or later who are at low to moderate risk of complications.
The project was funded by the province, the Kootenay East Regional Hospital District and the East Kootenay Foundation for Health.
Interior Health says the province contributed roughly $820,000 to the project.
“The newly renovated nursery will make it easier and faster for newborns to receive high-quality care,” said Health Minister Josie Osborne.
Local representatives acknowledged the role of community partnerships and donors.
MLA Steve Morissette said the project reflects community commitment to health services.
Interior Health president and CEO Sylvia Weir said the expanded NICU provides needed support for families.
KERHD chair David Wilks and EKFH executive director Brenna Hong also noted the contributions of funders and donors.
For more information about the expanded NICU, see Cranbrook East Kootenay Regional Hospital NICU Redevelopment – November 2025.
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