Hospital Provides Update On Oncology Services
[Updated] The Bermuda Hospitals Board said they are “close to bringing two new oncologists to Bermuda.”
A spokesperson said, “BHB is close to bringing two new oncologists to Bermuda. The new oncologists are in the final stages of recruitment having completed their local registration with the Bermuda Medical Council and we are in the process of securing immigration approval.
“Following the departure of Acting Director of Oncology Dr Michael Hawking in September, BHB has one full time oncologist until the new appointees arrive. Urgent work continues with overseas partners in order to refer newly diagnosed patients for consultation and treatment during this transition period, until the on-island Oncology service is able to have those patients transition back to Bermuda for continued treatment and follow up.
“New patients with insurance will be referred overseas following a review by the Tumour Board, and we will work on individual solutions with patients who do not have insurance or cannot travel.”
Acting Chief of Staff Anna Nielson-Williams comments, “We understand that our oncology patients will be very concerned about what this means to their treatment, and we recognise patients with newly discovered cancers during this time may worry about what this means to their care.
“There are up to 300 oncology patients seen by the service each month, and existing patients will continue with their chemotherapy treatments, though some appointments with the oncologist may be rescheduled for patients who are stable.
“We will do all we can to facilitate overseas referrals as quickly as possible for patients newly diagnosed until we can either secure more locum coverage or the new oncologists arrive. We will work individually with patients who do not have the option of travelling overseas.
“A cancer diagnosis is extremely stressful for patients and families, so we apologise for the additional anxiety caused and will continue to do everything possible to ensure we can return to delivering on-island care for all.”
Update 5.42pm: A Government spokesperson said, “The Ministry of Health, led by Minister Kim Wilson, has voiced serious concern about the impact on patient care due to a shortage of oncologists at the Bermuda Hospitals Board [BHB] oncology unit. With one oncologist having departed earlier this year and another in September, the Ministry recognizes the stress this places on newly diagnosed cancer patients who may need to seek temporary treatment overseas. The BHB is actively recruiting to fill these critical positions and expects two new oncologists to arrive soon to restore essential, uninterrupted care.”
Minister Wilson emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring that all patients, particularly those who are uninsured or underinsured, continue to receive necessary care. “Our focus remains on protecting the well-being of every patient in Bermuda, especially during this challenging time. We are working closely with BHB to ensure that no one is left without options, and that those who cannot travel overseas have access to local care. Patient health is our highest priority, and we will fully support the BHB’s efforts to expedite the arrival of new oncologists by collaborating with the Department of Immigration. The Ministry remains prepared to provide additional assistance to BHB, prioritizing the continuity and quality of patient care for every member of the community.”
