Two oncologists are “close” to arriving on the island to join the Bermuda Hospitals Board, it was announced yesterday.

The BHB said that the new oncologists were in the final stages of recruitment after they completed their local registration with the Bermuda Medical Council.

It added that the board was “in the process of securing immigration approval”.

After Michael Hawking, a former acting director of oncology, departed in September, the BHB was left with one full-time oncologist.

In the meantime, it said urgent work continued with its overseas partners to refer newly diagnosed patients for consultation and treatment.

When the recruitment process is completed, patients will be able to transition back to Bermuda for continued treatment and follow-up procedures.

At the moment, the BHB said new patients with insurance would be referred overseas after a review by the Tumour Board.

Otherwise, it said it would work on individual solutions with patients who do not have insurance or who cannot travel.

Anna Nielson-Williams, acting chief of staff, said: “We understand that our oncology patients will be very concerned about what this means to their treatment.

“And we recognise patients with newly discovered cancers during this time may worry about what this means to their care.”

She said up to 300 oncology patients were seen each month and existing patients would continue to receive chemotherapy treatments, although some appointments with the oncologist may be rescheduled for patients who are stable.

She said the BHB would try its utmost to facilitate overseas referrals efficiently for newly diagnosed patients until it can secure more stand-in coverage or until the new oncologists arrive.

She added: “We will work individually with patients who do not have the option of travelling overseas.

“A cancer diagnosis is extremely stressful for patients and families, so we apologise for the additional anxiety caused and will continue to do everything possible to ensure we can return to delivering on-island care for all.”

A spokeswoman for the Ministry of Health said it had voiced serious concerns about the shortage of oncologists and the resulting impact on patient care.

“With one oncologist having departed earlier this year and another in September, the ministry recognises the stress this places on newly diagnosed cancer patients who may need to seek temporary treatment overseas,” the spokeswoman said.

“The BHB is actively recruiting to fill these critical positions and expects two new oncologists to arrive soon to restore essential, uninterrupted care.”

Kim Wilson, the Minister of Health, added: “Our focus remains on protecting the wellbeing of every patient in Bermuda, especially during this challenging time.

“We are working closely with BHB to ensure that no one is left without options and that those who cannot travel overseas have access to local care.

“Patient health is our highest priority and we will fully support the BHB’s efforts to expedite the arrival of new oncologists by collaborating with the Department of Immigration.”

Ms Wilson said the ministry was still prepared to provide additional assistance to the BHB to help ensure the continuity and quality of patient care.