Health Minister Tom Osborne admits compensation levels and competition with other jurisdictions are among the greatest challenges in keeping radiation therapists.

Among the more alarming health care updates provided in recent months was word last week that the province has lost seven radiation therapists in the last year—hampering the province’s ability to provide cancer treatment.

The minister last week indicated that government is trying to recruit radiation therapists from outside the country to help address what NAPE calls a critical shortage.

Osborne says the department was informed by Eastern Health when they recently lost two radiation therapists a few weeks ago and had to close one of four radiation units. The province and health authority now have an agreement in place to treat some patients at Princess Margaret Hospital in Toronto.

That’s led to questions about timely access to radiation treatment and whether Princess Margaret is able to accept patients at the most optimal time. Minister Osborne says they are looking at available options.

He acknowledges the challenges in retaining radiation therapists. Osborne says it comes down to compensation and staying competitive with other jurisdictions.