Newly expanded cancer clinic opens in High River

HIGH RIVER – Cancer patients now have access to a larger space and new treatment areas with the opening of the newly renovated and expanded High River Community Cancer Clinic.

The clinic is now 2,400 square feet, six times its original size, and provides more comfortable and welcoming treatment areas for clients. The project is the result of community efforts by the High River District Health Care Foundation, supported by the Rotary Club of High River, which raised $1.6 million to start renovating and expanding the existing facility earlier this year.

“The new High River Community Cancer Clinic is made possible thanks to the dedication and commitment of the High River District Health Foundation and the generosity of the community,” says Dr. Verna Yiu, President and Chief Executive Officer, Alberta Health Services. “Partnerships like these help us improve patient care, and provide the right care in the right place.”

The High River Community Cancer Clinic has been operating since 1998 as a satellite clinic to Calgary’s Tom Baker Cancer Centre, providing cancer care to southern Albertans in and around High River. Under the direction of oncologists at the Tom Baker, the High River Community Cancer Clinic provides approximately 160 treatments per month, including chemotherapy, symptom management, transfusions, monitoring blood levels, followup visits and IV fluids.

“The support for this project has been overwhelming,” says Michael Brown, Executive Director of the High River District Health Foundation. “Today is a celebration of the generosity of our communities. It is a celebration of people who truly want to make a difference in people’s lives. We are so grateful to the Rotary Club of High River and all the many, many individuals, businesses and service clubs who were part of making today’s opening a reality.”

The new clinic provides six treatment chairs, a designated exam room, medication room, nutrition centre, private space for physician consultations with patients and families, dedicated office space, and private washrooms for patients. The facility is expandable to meet future needs.

“I’m so grateful for the care I received at the High River Community Cancer Clinic,” says former patient Lynn Rollins.

“The new space is going to provide patients with a more therapeutic space for their treatment and a more pleasant work environment for the staff who provide this amazing care.”

Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.

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