New Cancer Clinic In Vanderhoof

By 250 News

A new cancer clinic at Vanderhoof’s St. John Hospital will be a benefit to patients in the Lakes and Omineca districts  . The hospital is now under renovation to provide the new $250,000 a year service, which is set to open by the end of March.

“This new service will be an important addition to the range of health programs available for Lakes and Omineca residents,” said Dr. Charles Jago, chair of the Northern Health Board and co-chair of the 2006 Premier’s Consultation for Improved Cancer Care in Northern BC. “This is all part of an integrated system of cancer care for the north focusing on prevention, early detection, treatment and palliative care as required.”

Right now, Lakes and Omineca patients travel to Prince George for community cancer care services such as chemotherapy. The new clinic will provide a range of cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment and follow-up services at a local level. Family physicians in the area will continue to refer patients to cancer treatment that is appropriate for their clinical needs. Patients will continue to receive treatment plans guided by specialists such as medical oncologist Dr. Winston Bishop of Prince George.

Operating costs for the clinic are $250,000 a year.  A single anonymous donation of $200,000 paid for the clinic’s set-up costs and specialized pharmacy equipment. Additional donations will go to supporting comfort needs for patients.

An official opening for the new clinic is under development and is tentatively planned for March.

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