Position Statement

Impact of long waiting lists for diagnostic surgery, x-rays, on patient referrals

National and provincial surveys report lengthy delays in access to diagnostic imaging and surgeries for cancer diagnosis.  When this results in delays to referral to specialist oncology consultation, there can be a significant, negative impact on the emotional well-being of patients, the initiation of cancer therapy and on cancer control outcomes.  The Board of Directors of the Canadian Association of Radiation Oncologists supports the mandate of the Canadian Strategy for Cancer Control to suggest national strategies for cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment.  CARO will work within this and other initiatives to identify and correct the gaps in the current system and to improve access to cancer diagnosis and treatment.