QEH commits to provision of care for cancer patients

The Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) is assuring the public that it remains dedicated to the well-being of patients, and is taking every measure to provide the best possible health care. 

Following the departure of the former consultant for Oncology and Nuclear Medicine at the QEH, a decision was made by his replacement to discontinue the use of the cobalt machine for curative treatment, the hospital said in a news release on Sunday. 

“This decision reflects our unwavering commitment to finding the optimal curative solutions for our patients,” the release reads. 

According to the QEH, as far back as 2007, it explored the installation of a new Linear Accelerator under the leadership of the then Health Minister, Dr Jerome Walcott. 

But, according to the hospital, there were challenges posed by the technology’s requirement for a large bunker space at the time. The present cobalt machine was installed in 2013 to meet the immediate needs of patients. 

“We understand the urgency of providing curative radiation therapy to our patients, especially those on the waiting list. We are actively processing all patients who require and consent to this treatment, ensuring they have the opportunity to receive the necessary care,” the hospital said in the release. 

“Presently, we are eagerly anticipating the installation of a state-of-the art Linear Accelerator to further enhance our capabilities.” 

Additionally, the QEH said it has diligently researched jurisdictions that provide such services and have initiated a programme to send patients overseas for treatment. 

“Our Medical Aid Scheme has been successfully operating for several years and possesses the capacity to efficiently process referrals from the Oncology Department,” the hospital said. 

“At Queen Elizabeth Hospital, our patients’ well-being is our top priority, and we remain committed to delivering quality health-care services. We are confident our ongoing efforts will continue to uphold our promise to provide the best care possible for all those we serve.”

(PR)