Saskatchewan is taking steps to improve its gynecological oncology program.
Five gynecological oncologists have agreed to begin practising in the province, joining new program lead Dr. Laura Hopkins to give Saskatchewan six permanent gynecological oncologists.
Once the contracts are finalized and start dates are set, three of the doctors will work in Regina and three will work in Saskatoon.
Hopkins is to move to Saskatoon from Ottawa in September. She’s to focus on creating a provincial model of care guidelines, quality improvement initiatives and clinical trials.
“I am honoured to have the opportunity to build a strong gynecological oncology program and oncologist team for Saskatchewan,” Hopkins said in a media release. “It is my passion to provide excellent, compassionate, timely care for my patients through all stages of treatment during such a sensitive time.”
As well as hiring new doctors, the operation of the program also is being streamlined.
The Saskatchewan Cancer Agency will now run the program. Previously, the cancer agency, the Saskatchewan Health Authority and the University of Saskatchewan’s College of Medicine operated parts of the program.
“Our government and our health-care partners are committed to provide safe, quality care,” Health Minister Jim Reiter said in the media release.
“The Cancer Agency has an excellent track record of providing patient-centred care and by transitioning all program elements to a single agency can only further assist in the recruiting and retaining of these highly sought-after specialists.”