Doctor shortage will send some cancer patients out of Grey-Bruce

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Some local cancer patients will temporarily have to leave Grey-Bruce for care due to an oncologist shortage, Brightshores Health System announced Tuesday. 

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All cancer patients will continue to be referred to Brightshores as they are now and patients with new diagnoses of lung, colorectal and breast cancer will continue to be seen at Brightshores. 

“Patients currently in our care will not be impacted and will continue to receive treatment at Brightshores,” a hospital corporation news release said. 

But new patients with cancer treatment needs other than for lung, colorectal and breast cancer treatment will be redirected to the closest cancer centre in Barrie, Kitchener or London, the release said. 

“At this time, the demand for care is exceeding our oncology program’s ability to provide services,” the release said. There are two oncologists at Brightshores. 

“We truly regret having to be in this position,” said Beth Morris, vice president of clinical services and quality, and chief nursing executive, in the release.  

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“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.” 

“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,” the release said.  

Brightshores’ retail pharmacy remains available for patients to fill any oral chemotherapy prescriptions, the release said. 

“We know that this change will add worry to patients and families during an already stressful time,” Morris said in the release. “This approach ensures patients are receiving the best quality care while we continue to recruit medical oncologists.” 

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The national physician shortage is being felt every day at the hospital and in our local communities, the release said. 

Morris said they’re grateful to their oncologists, the cancer program team and for the support of their partners at the South West Regional Cancer Program, as well as London Health Sciences Centre, Grand River Hospital and Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre.

Questions from patients and their families may be directed to the hospital’s Patient Relations Department at 519-372-3920 Ext. 2308, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Friday or email [email protected].

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