Archived News Releases

News Release - Manitoba

January 11, 2016

Province Invests in Relocating, Expanding Community Cancer Program at Thompson General Hospital



The Manitoba government will relocate and expand the chemotherapy unit and the community cancer program space at Thompson General Hospital, Health Minister Sharon Blady announced today.

“This project will build on work that’s already been done to improve cancer services in the region by enhancing access to the care people need close to home,” said Minister Blady.  “These investments will ensure chemotherapy and other cancer services are provided safely, confidentially and more efficiently using facilities that meet provincial standards.”

This $1.4-million design includes 1,150-sq.-ft. that will incorporate a private space for doctors and nurses to chart and provide confidential patient care.  The chemotherapy spaces will be larger giving patients more room and be wheelchair accessible.  This will result in a safer and more secure treatment area for patients and staff, the minister said.

“This new unit will provide patients with a modern and comfortable space to receive treatment while at the same time ensuring the confidentiality of those patients that we are here to serve,” said Helga Bryant, chief executive officer, Northern Regional health Authority.  “This project builds on our capacity to better meet the needs of our patients as they go through their cancer journey.”

The space will include a charting area, an accessible washroom and an isolation room that can be used as one of the chemotherapy stations.

“The network of cancer hubs means every Manitoban has access to an expert team to guide them through the cancer patient journey.  The services provided in Thompson take the burden off patients and families by connecting them to the support they need closer to home,” said Dr. Sri Navaratnam, president and chief executive officer, CancerCare Manitoba.  “This expansion of the space to deliver services will improve patient care and safety and the quality of the patient experience for northern Manitobans.”

The minister noted this project will also help accommodate future demands if there are higher patient numbers.

“This is an important project for Thompson and Manitoba's northern communities,” said Erin Crawford, senior director, public issues and community engagement, Canadian Cancer Society, Manitoba Division.  “The Thompson Relay for Life committee and its supporters should be congratulated for their dogged determination to support cancer patients on many fronts, including identifying the importance of an expanded and improved chemotherapy clinic to better serve the community.  The Cancer Society is proud to work with this group of dedicated people that continue to demonstrate the impact we can have when we work together.”

The minister said the Manitoba government has taken additional steps in the past 18 months to improve cancer services across the province including:

  • implementing a comprehensive, fully integrated provincial system for digital mammography;
  • introducing liquid-based cytology equipment to improve screening for cervical cancer and other cancers;
  • adding new cancer drugs to the Manitoba drug formulary and the Manitoba Home Cancer Drug Program; and
  • investing in new equipment that allows for more targeted treatment and better outcomes after radiation for patients with ovarian, cervical, uterine and other cancers at CancerCare Manitoba.

 

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