Cancer treatment for northern B.C. residents took another step forward Friday with the arrival of a medical oncologist for the B.C. Cancer Agency Centre for the North.
Dr. Suresh Katakkar will be working full time, along with Dr. Winston Bishop, in University Hospital's cancer unit the BCCA Centre for the North opens in September, 2012.
Medical oncologists treat cancer patients requiring chemotherapy or hormonal treatment. They also recommend treatment programs and co-ordinate with other professionals in the delivery of care.
Katakkar joins cancer care physician staff of Bishop and Dr. Robert Olson, radiation oncologist, who was hired in late September as the first of four radiation oncologists needed to staff the centre.Katakkar is also appointed regional professional practice leader in medical oncology for the North by the BCCA.
As such he will oversee and work with staff at the 10 smaller cancer units that offer chemotherapy throughout the North.
Katakkar, who is also a certified hematologist, has practiced medicine for 35 years, mainly in Saskatchewan until he moved to the U.S. in 1978. He has authored numerous publications and presentations in medical oncology. He is a widower with three daughters.
Recruitment for the new cancer centre continues for additional medical and radiation oncologists, radiation therapists. social workers and pharmacists.
p for the cancer journey from prevention through to palliative care.
"I'm absolutely delighted that its a passion across the North, and it will be helpful to provide support (through Katakkar) to the general oncologists in the Northern Health areas.
