NEW CANCER TREATMENT EQUIPMENT IN REGINA

Health Minister John Nilson today unveiled new state of the art radiation therapy technology that provides Saskatchewan cancer patients with the latest treatment techniques. Patients who require cancer treatment now have access to Regina's newest linear accelerator (Linac) at the Allan Blair Cancer Centre.

Saskatchewan Health is investing $2.7 million in the project, supporting the goals set out in The Action Plan for Saskatchewan Health Care.

"This investment is another example of our ongoing commitment to increased access to quality health care," Health Minister John Nilson said. "Providing continued support to the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency so that they can treat patients with the highest standard of care is a top priority of our government. New technology such as this linear accelerator is a vital part of renewing our health care infrastructure."

The $2.2 million high-energy linear accelerator increases the accuracy and effectiveness of cancer treatment. It can send a radiation beam in the precise shape of a tumour, improving effectiveness in the treatment of all types of cancer that require radiation therapy.

"This new linear accelerator provides Saskatchewan cancer patients with a new standard of care that has emerged with advancements in technology. It directly improves our ability to deliver timely, accessible and effective cancer care," Nilson said. "It will also make it easier for us to retain cancer specialists, encouraging them to stay and practice in Saskatchewan."

Dr. David Popkin of the Allan Blair Cancer Centre said the Linac can treat between 25 and 40 patients daily, depending on the type of treatment required. "It gives us much greater flexibility in scheduling patients once their treatment has been planned," Popkin said.

Saskatchewan Cancer Agency Chief Executive Officer Bob Allen believes the purchase will make it easier for the Agency to retain cancer care professionals. "This equipment dramatically improves the work environment for our radiation oncology specialists by providing them with state of the art technology and the capability to participate in new radiation therapy research," Allen said.

Saskatchewan Health also provided the funding of approximately $500,000 for capital construction required to house the machine.

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For More Information, Contact:

Mark Rathwell Health Regina Phone: (306) 787-4083

Glenda Little Saskatchewan Cancer Agency Regina Phone: (306) 791-2767