Prince Rupert Port Authority Supports Enhanced Local Cancer Care Unit

Cancer patients of Prince Rupert Regional Hospital (PRRH) will soon benefit from a full-scale renovation of the Cancer Care Unit, ensuring the local Oncology Department is equipped with the most up-to-date technology and comfortable facilities to minimize unnecessary out-of-town medical travel for residents of Prince Rupert and the surrounding communities it serves.

The Prince Rupert Port Authority (PRPA) announced today its support through its Community Investment Fund for the North Coast Health Improvement Society’s (NCHIS) Cancer Care Unit Upgrade Project in the amount of $100,000. The project includes an increase in space and capacity, improved privacy and comfort for patients and their families, and enhanced treatment technology and tools.

The Cancer Care Unit Upgrade Project addresses limitations of the previous space like poor sight lines, isolation of physician from patients and staff, an unwelcoming chemotherapy room, and limited space to accommodate accompanying family and friends. With the number of cancer patients increasing each year, the need for access to local primary care is a priority in the region.

“Every member of our community will be impacted by cancer in some way, at some point in their lives,” said Shaun Stevenson, President and CEO of the Prince Rupert Port Authority. “We at PRPA recognize the importance of contributing to projects like this that will help patients feel more comfortable as they receive care closer to home.”

“NCHIS worked collaboratively with Northern Health, cancer doctors, nurses and specialists, to ensure the equipment was of the highest standard for the unit and meets the Government of BC’s best practices for delivery of healthcare to residents of the north coast,” said Stefan Delloch, President of the NCHIS. “We are grateful to everyone that contributed to seeing this project realized.”

With a total project cost of $200,000, NCHIS is investing $50,000 of its own funds and has received additional support from the community and other partners.