Health chiefs have appointed a new oncologist following concerns of a shortage of cancer specialists on the Island.

This morning Bermuda Hospitals Board (BHB) confirmed that Dr Sein Aung has been hired as Director of Oncology. Originally from Myanmar, Dr Aung is currently working at a hospital in Baltimore and will take up his new post in Bermuda in October.

Last month The Royal Gazette revealed that a US oncologist hired by the BHB two years ago to lead cancer services on the Island had handed in his notice. Dr Paul Coty was also placed on sick leave, leaving only part-time doctors to cover his absence. Cancer patients expressed concern that treatments could be affected by staff shortages and also questioned if a replacement for Dr Coty could be hired before his departure in September.

This morning the hospital’s Chief of Medicine, Dr Keith Chiappa, said: “By way of an update for the current service, we are confirming that Dr Coty will not be returning to Bermuda.

“We remain grateful to Dr Jean Walters, Dr Tutu Aung-Hillman, and our overseas physicians and providers for ensuring that people in Bermuda still have access to the care they need.

“We apologise for any disruption during this time, but look forward to establishing a stable service in the Fall. Oncology Services will have moved to the new acute care wing in September 2014, and so when Dr Aung arrives he can work with the excellent Oncology team to move this vitally important service from strength to strength. ”

“On behalf of BHB and our cancer team, I am very pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Aung to the role of Director of Oncology. BHB has worked hard to recruit a full time, on-island oncologist and greatly looks forward to Dr Aung’s arrival. There is high demand globally for oncologists, and Bermuda’s unique situation means we need a skilled all-round oncologist, rather than a specialist in one kind of cancer. It is very good news for cancer care in Bermuda that we have secured the services of such a highly skilled and qualified oncologist who will start in October.”

Dr Aung, who has signed a three-year contract with BHB, will be the medical lead for cancer services. His responsibilities will include consulting with cancer patients in Bermuda and managing their care, working with healthcare partners here and overseas, and developing cancer services on-island.

Dr Aung is married to Dr Hyat Mying, who will also join BHB as Consultant Geriatrician.