Discover the latest updates on the replacement of radiation treatment equipment at Sault Area Hospital (SAH) and its impact on cancer patients in the Sault and surrounding areas. From February to July 2024, patients will be required to travel to Sudbury for treatment while the current equipment is being replaced. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this inconvenience, the transportation options available, and how patients can make informed decisions about their treatment. Stay informed and prepared for this temporary change in radiation treatment services.
Why is the Radiation Treatment Equipment Being Replaced?
Learn about the reasons behind the replacement of radiation treatment equipment at Sault Area Hospital.
The current radiation treatment equipment at Sault Area Hospital (SAH) is due for replacement after 12 years of use. This replacement is necessary to ensure the safety and quality of radiation treatment for patients.
The installation of a new state-of-the-art radiation treatment unit, known as a linear accelerator, requires careful decommissioning and removal of the current unit, renovations and construction for the new unit, and extensive testing and training. These steps are crucial to meet radiation safety and quality parameters.
Temporary Travel to Sudbury for Treatment
Find out how the replacement of radiation treatment equipment will affect cancer patients in the Sault and surrounding areas.
Between February and July 2024, cancer patients in the Sault and surrounding areas will need to travel to Sudbury for radiation treatment. This temporary inconvenience is necessary while the replacement of the radiation treatment equipment takes place at Sault Area Hospital.
Patients needing radiation or radiation combined with chemotherapy will receive their care at the Shirley and Jim Fielding Northeast Cancer Centre (NECC) in Sudbury. The hospital will provide transportation options for admitted inpatients, which may include air ambulance or ground transportation services. Non-admitted patients can access transportation programs such as the Canadian Cancer Society's Wheels of Hope Volunteer Driving Program, Ontario Northland, or Driverseat Sault Ste. Marie.
If patients choose to defer treatment due to the travel involved, they will have an informed discussion with their radiation oncologist about the potential risks. SAH will provide patients with an information package outlining transportation options, tips on accommodation, parking, and accessing the Northern Ontario Travel grant to help offset travel costs.
Continued Treatment at Sault Area Hospital
Discover which cancer treatments will still be available at Sault Area Hospital during the equipment replacement period.
While the replacement of radiation treatment equipment is taking place, patients who require only chemotherapy will continue to receive their treatment at Sault Area Hospital. Cancer surgeries will also not be affected by this temporary change.
This ensures that patients can still receive the necessary treatments close to home, minimizing the impact of the equipment replacement on their overall cancer care.
Funding and Community Support
Learn about the funding sources and community support for the replacement of radiation treatment equipment.
The cost of the new radiation treatment unit, a state-of-the-art linear accelerator, is funded by Cancer Care Ontario. This investment reflects the commitment to providing advanced and effective cancer treatments to patients.
Additionally, the Sault Area Hospital Foundation relies on community donations to support the costs associated with the project. The generosity of the community plays a vital role in ensuring that the replacement of the radiation treatment equipment can proceed smoothly and without financial burden.
Impacts and Notification
Discover how patients will be notified and the timeline for the interruption in radiation treatment services.
Patients will be notified in advance about the temporary interruption in radiation treatment services. The interruption will begin on February 11, 2024, and is expected to last until July 2024.
SAH will provide patients with an information package that outlines transportation options, tips on accommodation, parking, and accessing the Northern Ontario Travel grant. This comprehensive package aims to support patients in navigating the temporary changes and minimizing any potential disruptions to their treatment.
