Earlier cancer detection goal of new lung assessment clinic at Oakville hospital  

A new Lung Diagnostic Assessment Program (LDAP) Clinic at Oakville Trafalgar Memorial Hospital (OTMH) will help Halton Healthcare move forward in their goal of earlier cancer detection.

The clinic offers a state-of-the-art diagnostic assessment and treatment for patients with symptoms or concerns related to lung cancer or suspicious spots on the lungs.

Residents of Halton will now be able to access coordinated, streamlined and expedited diagnostic care closer to home.

“Waiting to get the results of any cancer diagnosis is already an incredibly stressful experience and these patients often face additional logistical challenges that can delay the process,” says Dr. David Youssef, Respirologist, Physician Lead for the LDAP. “During the diagnostic phase, patients are frequently referred for multiple tests and consultations, across various healthcare facilities.

“Our clinic addresses these challenges by offering a coordinated, streamlined and expedited diagnostic process. We are dedicated to supporting patients every step of the way, ensuring all investigations adhere to Cancer Care Ontario guidelines and are completed as quickly as possible. Our ultimate goal is early cancer detection, which enables prompt and effective treatment to enhance patient outcomes.”

At the clinic, a team of medical experts will use advanced diagnostic tools and technology to detect lung cancer early.

Only a handful of hospitals in the province offer some of the advanced endoscopy procedures available in the new program at OTMH, says Dr. Youssef.

As well as expert medical care, the team at the clinic will also provide a patient navigator to help patients manage their healthcare journey, schedule appointments, and support their educational, emotional, physical needs, thereby minimizing anxiety throughout the process.

After their referral, patients will be seen at the clinic within two weeks and all related testing is done within 28 days of their consultation.

If lung cancer is detected, the LDAP team will collaborate with thoracic surgeons, medical and radiation oncologists to provide a complete personalized care plan for patients and their families.

“The advantage of having this LDAP clinic at OTMH is that family physicians, Emergency Department physicians and other specialists from our Milton District Hospital, Georgetown Hospital, and other areas of the Halton Region can refer their patients to the program without any delay,” says Dr. Youssef. “This vital, high-tech diagnostic and treatment service has the potential to save lives, and we are delighted to be able to offer it locally, closer to home for our patients in Halton.”

For more information, visit haltonhealthcare.com or contact the LDAP Clinic at 905-845-2571, ext. 4407 or [email protected].