Eastern Health Chairwoman Apologizes for Botched Breast Cancer Tests
Posted on: Wednesday, 26 March 2008, 09:01 CDT
By THE CANADIAN PRESS
ST. JOHN'S, N.L. - An executive with Newfoundland's Eastern Health Authority said Wednesday she's sorry for the pain and anxiety felt by patients who may have missed treatment because of botched breast cancer tests.
Joan Dawe, chairwoman of Eastern Health's board of trustees, apologized in an opening statement at the public inquiry into the misread tests.
"I'm very sorry for the pain and anxiety that patients and their families have endured," she said. "For this, Eastern Health apologizes."
Dawe had to repeat her apology after a technical breakdown forced a brief break in proceedings.
The apology came after patients and relatives of deceased patients gave heart-wrenching testimony about how they were affected by the mistakes.
The inquiry is examining how 383 patients were given erroneous results on their breast cancer tests and whether Eastern Health responded to them and the public in an appropriate and timely manner.
Dawe said she remains confident that medical officials with Eastern Health carried out their duties to the best of their abilities.
"Their motivation was first and foremost to provide the very best patient care," she said. "That remains Eastern Health's objective today."
The inquiry is focusing on Eastern Health's handling of hormone receptor tests, which are a valuable in determining the course of treatment for breast cancer patients.
If patients are found to be estrogen-and/or progesterone-positive, they may respond to hormone therapy such as Tamoxifen.
If not, they may be given other treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiation.
Source: Canadian Press
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