News release

Province Approves Funding to Reduce Wait Times, Improve Cancer Care

Health (to Jan. 2011)

Cancer patients in Nova Scotia are one step closer to better care and shorter wait times with a $7.9-million investment for equipment and construction at the Nova Scotia Cancer Centre.

The money will help expand the Nova Scotia Cancer Centre at the QEII Health Sciences Centre, including new radiation therapy suites and new equipment. The funding comes from the Radiation Therapy Wait Time Guarantee funds and the Capital District Healthy Authority.

"We are approving this important investment because it will help Nova Scotians who require radiation therapy receive faster, better care," said Health Minister Maureen MacDonald. "Improving care for cancer patients will make life better for families in every region of Nova Scotia."

The QEII Foundation committed last winter to partner with government on the project and raise $4 million toward the costs. The foundation initiated the Cancer Never Waits campaign to raise awareness and funds.

The new equipment and expanded suites at the cancer centre will be installed over the next 18 months. When complete, there will be two new linear accelerators, which deliver precise radiation therapy, and increased access and improved space for patients.

The Radiation Therapy Project was announced in March 2007, when Nova Scotia received $24 million from the federal government. Since then, a review with Nova Scotia Cancer Centre staff has determined additional funding would be needed for adequate space and equipment. Cancer experts anticipate a increased demand for radiation therapy and Nova Scotia is preparing to meet it.

Dr. Tetteh Ago, chief of radiation oncology for Capital Health, welcomed the funding.

"We are now able to move on with purchasing radiation treatment equipment and building bunkers to house them," Dr. Ago said. "When this is completed, it will greatly improve wait times for Nova Scotia cancer patients."