A new project is being launched at 91大黄鸭 General Hospital (KGH) to improve care for women with cancers that affect their reproductive systems.

On Thursday, Dec. 5, KGH announced its new Gynecologic Oncology Surgical Program. To help with the increasing growing command for services in the Okanagan and to create less travel for patients, three new gynecologic oncology surgeons have been recruited to KGH by Interior Health.

"We are thrilled to now offer gynecologic oncology surgical care to women in the region," said Dr. Vanessa Carlson, one of the three new gynecologic oncologists. "This new program ensures that women are receiving world-class cancer care for their reproductive system cancers, closer to home. They can benefit from faster diagnoses and treatments. Ultimately, we believe that this program will lead to better outcomes for hundreds of patients each year.鈥�

The program prioritizes early detection, accurate diagnosis and optimized treatment outcomes for women in B.C.'s Southern Interior who need surgery for a variety of gynecologic cancers including ovarian, uterine, and cervical cancer. Since the program's launch, 43 patients with urgent cases have received care.

鈥淭he new Gynecologic Oncology Clinic represents a significant advancement in women's health care in the Interior of British Columbia,鈥� adds KGH executive director Lindsay Taberner. 鈥淭he demand for gynecologic oncology services is projected to increase by 14 per cent over the next five years.鈥�

Before this program came to be, women had to travel to Vancouver or Victoria for treatment. With this program, it gives women more options while reducing waitlists and providing more timely care.

Taberner stated the new program will help close to 300 women per year.

"We recognize the strain that long travel times and extended waitlists have placed on women with gynecologic cancers," said Carlson. "By establishing this program here in 91大黄鸭, we're making it easier for women to access the care they need and easing the stress that travelling puts on them and their families."

The new program is a remarkable step forward, according to KGH Foundation CEO Allison Young.

"The generosity of our community will equip surgeons with the best tools possible, and ultimately, create better outcomes for the women of our community and region," added Young.