The oncology department at EPH Amizour hospital in Algeria has resumed chemotherapy sessions for cancer patients after a two-week interruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The hospital's oncology service was put on hold when the first cases of COVID-19 emerged, leaving dozens of cancer patients waiting for their treatment. Patients who were hospitalized and isolated in the oncology ward have now been able to receive their treatment once again.
To minimize risks, the hospital has relocated the oncology service from its previous location to the pediatric ward, moving it away from the area now designated for isolating COVID-19 patients. This measure was deemed necessary due to the vulnerability of cancer patients to the new virus. According to Dr. Louardiane, an oncologist at the hospital, this relocation aims to ensure the safety of patients undergoing chemotherapy.
To prevent any chaos or disruptions in the resumption of chemotherapy sessions, the hospital's oncology staff and management have agreed on a gradual restart of treatment. A schedule has been established to organize the sessions, and patients who were previously scheduled to receive treatment will be informed by phone.
Patients will be required to bring their medical records and test results when they come in for their treatment. The hospital staff has reassured patients and their families that the temporary halt in treatment will not have any severe consequences for their health.
The two-week delay in chemotherapy sessions had caused concern and anxiety among patients and their families. However, the hospital staff has confirmed that the interruption was temporary and will not impact the overall health of the patients.
The resumption of chemotherapy sessions at EPH Amizour hospital is a welcome relief for cancer patients who rely on these treatments. The hospital's efforts to reorganize and adapt its services in response to the COVID-19 pandemic have helped to alleviate some of the anxiety and uncertainty faced by patients and their families.
The situation highlights the challenges faced by healthcare systems in managing the needs of patients with different medical conditions during a pandemic. EPH Amizour hospital's experience demonstrates the importance of flexibility and adaptability in responding to emerging health crises while ensuring the continued care of patients with chronic conditions.
Key points
- Chemotherapy sessions have resumed at EPH Amizour hospital after a two-week halt due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- The hospital relocated its oncology service to a different ward to minimize the risk of COVID-19 transmission.
- Patients are being treated according to a schedule established by the hospital, with minimal disruption to their care.
