in Chatsworth, Grey Highlands, Southgate, West Grey
November 19, 2024
Photo by Thirdman
Recruitment of medical oncologists to Brightshores Health System is a high priority. Despite their best efforts, Brightshores says they have been unable to recruit additional oncologists to the team. The national physician shortage is being felt every day at the hospital and in our local communities.
Beginning Monday, Nov. 25, 2024, patients with new diagnoses of lung, colorectal and breast cancer will continue to be seen at Brightshores. Patients with other cancer treatment needs who would normally be treated at Brightshores will be redirected to the closest cancer centre (Barrie, Kitchener or London).
Patients currently in their care will not be impacted and will continue to receive treatment at Brightshores.
“We truly regret having to be in this position,” says Beth Morris, Vice President, Clinical Services & Quality, and Chief Nursing Executive. “We have worked very hard to minimize the impact on patients who would normally receive their cancer care at Brightshores. This change will provide the best care to all patients while we continue to recruit for additional oncologists.”
All cancer patients will continue to be referred to Brightshores as they are now. Brightshores will oversee the referral process and, working with the referring physician, will redirect the patient to the closest cancer centre based on where they live and the cancer treatment they require. Their retail pharmacy remains available for patients to fill any oral chemotherapy prescriptions.
Brightshores' two oncologists are deeply committed to providing every patient with quality care and are working with the cancer centre care to ensure all patients have access to timely care. They explain that at this time, the demand for care is exceeding their oncology program’s ability to provide services.
“We know that this change will add worry to patients and families during an already stressful time,” says Morris. “Providing quality care close to home is a commitment we take seriously. This approach ensures patients are receiving the best quality care while we continue to recruit medical oncologists. We are truly grateful to our oncologists, our cancer program team and our partners at the South West Regional Cancer Program, as well as London Health Sciences Centre, Grand River Hospital and Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre for their support during this challenging time.”
Brightshores says they appreciate that patients and their families might have questions or concerns. They ask that they contact the Patient Relations Department for assistance and support. They can be reached at 519-372-3920 Ext. 2308, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm Monday to Friday patientrelations@brightshores.ca.
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