Quote:
Oncologists have been trying to reach an agreement with Alberta Health Services over the last five months. Parks said they are concerned that compensation isn't high enough to compete with provinces like Ontario and B.C. which are aggressively recruiting.
The number of oncologists is not keeping up with Alberta's population growth. In 2013, 102 oncologists practised in Alberta. In 2022, the number increased by 20 per cent to 122. The number of new cancer cases increased by 40 per cent over those nine years.
The AMA says patients are waiting eight to 13 weeks for an initial assessment by an oncologist. The five most frequently performed cancer surgeries are bladder, colorectal, breast, lung and prostrate procedures. Only 60 per cent are performed within recommended timelines.
Alberta-trained oncologists are leaving the province for greener pastures. Over the past four years, only one of eight radiation oncologists stayed in Alberta. Of the 17 medical oncologists trained here, just two stuck around.
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https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmon...207129?cmp=rss
Cool, added "don't get cancer" to my list. Good thing Alberta is calling for trades workers though...