Ontario increases access to stem cell transplants
A stem cell transplant is a procedure that replaces abnormal cells in patients whose normal cells have been affected by lymphoma, leukemia, myeloma and other cancers and disorders affecting the blood.
" With this new funding, we are helping hospitals provide life-saving stem cell treatment closer to home. The excellent work and recommendations of the Stem Cell Treatment Consultation Group has enabled the construction of these state-of-the-art facilities in Toronto and London. The government’s investment in the two new units will reduce wait times and improve care for Ontarians who need stem cell transplants," said Hoskins.
To meet the increasing demand for stem cell transplants, according to the release, 15 new inpatient beds and a new outpatient clinic will be established in Princess Margaret Cancer Centre to support up to eight new stem cell therapy physicians. London Health Sciences Centre will have seven new inpatient beds with outpatient treatment clinic, and a new outpatient and chemotherapy pharmacy.
"This investment by the Ontario government to build additional capacity for stem cell transplants in our province is a critical component of our work to ensure that patients with blood cancer have timely access to high-quality care as close to home as possible," said Michael Sherar, President and CEO, Cancer Care Ontario.
Murray Glendining, President and CEO, London Health Science Centre said that the funding will allow staff and physicians “to better serve the people of London and region by providing specialized stem cell transplant inpatient and day treatment facilities, dedicated hematology outpatient clinics, as well as support services in plasmapheresis, laboratory services and pharmacy services."
Patients in need of stem cell transplants in Ontario will benefit from a total of 440 stem cell transplants per year once the new units are operational.
"Announcement by Minister Hoskins is critical to the future of cancer care and…all leukemia patients...also ensure that the Greater Toronto Area has sufficient capacity to make bone marrow transplants available close to home,” said Peter Pisters, President and CEO, University Health Network.
(Reporting by Asha Bajaj)
Image: Eric Hoskins/Twitter
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