Penticton Regional Hospital’s oncology department is expected to double in capacity by November 2024, thanks to a $22-million capital investment from both local and provincial health bodies.
The province announced the oncology clinic’s expansion on Tuesday, Oct. 18, saying the project will provide the clinic with a modern setting and support the anticipated increased demand for medical oncology services.
“We’re proud that the expansion of the oncology clinic at Penticton Regional Hospital will benefit people across the region, as patients and families will continue to be able to receive medical oncology treatments and follow-up care closer to home,” said Adrian Dix, the minister of health.
The $22 million comes from a partnership between Interior Health, the Okanagan-Similkameen Regional Hospital District and the SOS Medical Foundation.
“A newly renovated and modern cancer clinic space will provide the kind of healing space that we all know our residents need,” said Roly Russell, MLA for Boundary-Similkameen.
Along with the timely services it hopes to provide, Russell adds that the expanded clinic will support the recruitment and retention of more skilled healthcare professionals in the Interior.
The capital investment will also help health services in the Interior keep up with demand over the next 20 years, with the incidence of cancer estimated to increase, the province says.
“With support from the South Okanagan Similkameen (SOS) Medical Foundation and the Okanagan-Similkameen Regional Hospital District, this investment will help provide timely access to cancer treatments for residents across the South Okanagan and Similkameen,” said Susan Brown, the president and CEO of Interior Health.
While the regional hospital kicked in $3.2 million for the project, the SOS Medical Foundation’s oncology campaign began with a $500,000 gift from Essio Truant in honour of his late wife. Traunt made the donation before he passed away at the Penticton hospital in March 2022.
“Increasing patient capacity and working conditions will ensure Penticton Regional Hospital continues to be a world-class healthcare facility,” said Martin Johansen, chair at Okanagan-Similkameen Regional Hospital District, who also serves as the Mayor of Oliver.
A $300 million expansion project at the hospital was completed in May, after six years of work.
Upgrades to the new oncology department, meanwhile, are expected to wrap in November 2024.
READ MORE: $300 million expansion of Penticton Regional Hospital officially complete