Oncologist leaving Brandon role cites lack of provincial support
A medical oncologist is departing his position at the Western Manitoba Cancer Centre in Brandon, Manitoba, citing a persistent lack of support from the provincial government. Dr. Brady Anderson, who has served as the sole medical oncologist outside of Winnipeg for four years, will conclude his role on November 13th, transitioning to a hospitalist position at the Brandon Regional Health Centre.
Anderson expressed deep disappointment at having to leave his oncology practice, describing it as his “dream job” since his early medical studies. He was motivated to contribute to the region after family members experienced cancer.
He stated that his workload, coupled with a perceived absence of support from CancerCare Manitoba, has led to burnout. While the CancerCare site in Brandon maintains two family doctors trained in oncology and three radiation oncologists, Anderson has been responsible for critical decision-making regarding patient diagnosis and treatment plans, often leading to him being perpetually on call.
Despite repeated requests for assistance through nurse practitioners, clinical assistants, or physician assistants, no support materialized. Anderson stated, “I’m effectively being forced into a significant amount of unpaid overtime, with no promise or guarantee that it will be fixed or compensated in the future.” He currently oversees the treatments and follow-ups of several hundred patients.
Doctors Manitoba spokesperson Keir Johnson noted that Manitoba has approximately 20 per cent fewer medical oncologists per capita than the Canadian average, with only one located in Brandon. A provincial government spokesperson indicated that a new medical oncologist began work recently and will assume Anderson’s responsibilities. However, Anderson voiced concerns about the sustainability of the new arrangement, citing a lack of information regarding coverage plans and the potential for the new oncologist to inherit the same unsustainable workload.
Brandon West MLA Wayne Balcaen raised the issue during legislative question period, emphasizing the impact on constituents across western Manitoba. Health Minister Uzoma Asagwara acknowledged staffing challenges and affirmed the government’s commitment to recruiting and retaining healthcare professionals in the region. Twylla Krueger, director of communications for CancerCare Manitoba, assured patients of continued care and a smooth transition. Brandon Mayor Jeff Fawcett emphasized the importance of retaining specialists in the region, noting that recruitment is only part of the solution. Anderson will continue to serve the community as a hospitalist.
Source
“Medical oncologist based in Brandon says he's leaving his 'dream job' over lack of support”
Read the original report ↗This story is an AI-assisted version of the original report, checked and edited by the Plainwire desk before publication. Read our editorial policy · Report an error
Read next
Rising health insurance costs dampen wage growth and strain affordability
The start of open enrollment season for health care plans is approaching, and many Americans are bracing for significant premium increases.
Related
Caught up in five lines
The Brief: the day’s biggest stories, written by our desk at and .