Victoria Hospitals Foundation Launches $21M Fundraiser for Surgical Robots

The Victoria Hospitals Foundation has initiated a significant fundraising campaign aimed at raising $21 million to acquire advanced surgical robots for hospitals in Greater Victoria. This initiative follows a historic $7.5 million donation, marking the largest gift in the foundation’s 36-year history. The goal is to enhance surgical capabilities in the region, particularly at Royal Jubilee Hospital and Victoria General Hospital.

The campaign, titled “It’s Time for a Surgical Evolution,” plans to introduce the da Vinci surgical robot and the region’s first neuro-surgery robot, along with over 60 pieces of innovative oncology equipment. The da Vinci robot, a sophisticated machine with multiple arms, is already in use at Royal Jubilee Hospital, where it has been praised for its precision and effectiveness in surgeries.

Dr. Jeff McCracken, the chief urologist at Royal Jubilee Hospital, has been utilizing the da Vinci robot since February. He reports substantial improvements in patient outcomes, stating that recovery times have decreased by 60 to 70 percent, and the risk of blood transfusions has fallen by 90 percent. “It’s a much safer way to do surgery,” he emphasized, noting that the technology not only benefits patients but also enhances hospital efficiency.

“The introduction of this technology allows for a better flow of patients, leading to fewer cancellations and a more reliable surgical schedule,” Dr. McCracken added. He highlighted the importance of such innovations in preserving surgical careers and attracting new surgeons to the region.

Avery Brohman, CEO of the Victoria Hospitals Foundation, expressed enthusiasm for the campaign. “We are stewarding the largest gift that we’ve ever received as a foundation,” she stated. The foundation aims to match the donation through community contributions, enabling the second phase of the campaign to commence on a strong footing.

Dr. McCracken, who has recently been appointed head of robotics at both Royal Jubilee Hospital and Victoria General Hospital, reflected on the impact of the new technology. “It melts my heart to see that everything we said was true,” he said. “We are building a community site that could have the most comprehensive robotics program—potentially in the country. It’s astonishing.”

For those interested in supporting this initiative, donations can be made through the Victoria Hospitals Foundation’s website, in person at their office located at Royal Jubilee Hospital, or by telephone at 250-519-1750. The campaign represents a pivotal step forward in enhancing surgical care in Greater Victoria, ultimately aiming to provide safer and more efficient healthcare services to the community.