The Ontario government is investing in state-of-the-art stem cell treatments for the London Health Sciences Centre.
Ontario Minister of Health and Long-Term Care Dr. Eric Hoskins made the announcement Thursday. This paves the way for new stem cell inpatient and outpatient clinics at LHSC, as well as the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre in Toronto.
"The government’s investment in the two new units will reduce wait times and improve care for Ontarians who need stem cell transplants," says Hoskins.
The investment is a response to the rising demand for stem cell transplants. At LHSC, the increase in stem cell treatment funding will result in seven new beds, renovation of the existing outpatient treatment space, expansion of the outpatient clinic, and the creation of a new outpatient and chemotherapy pharmacy.
Murray Glendining, president and CEO of LHSC, says the investment is a huge step to making London a major hub for stem cell transplants as well as blood cancer research.
"This funding will allow our staff and physicians to better serve the people of London and region by providing specialized stem cell transplant inpatient and day treatment facilities, dedicated hematology outpatient clinics, as well as support services in plasmapheresis, laboratory services and pharmacy services," says Glendining.
London North Centre MPP Deb Matthews calls the investment great news for London.
“We’ve seen an expanding demand for stem cell transplants and that’s why I’m proud our government is taking steps to ensure patient’s needs are met," says Matthews in a statement. "This significant investment will help reduce wait times, deliver care closer to home, and increase access to services. This is wonderful news for patients and their families in London and surrounding areas.”
The government is also releasing the year-end report from the Minister's Stem Cell Consultation Group, whose clinical experts have reported on how capacity and access for stem cell transplants can be increased in Ontario. People with lived experience in stem cell treatment also participated in the group.
With the increased funding for the London and Toronto facilities, a total of 440 stem cell transplants per year will soon be performed there.