Brightshores Health System is expanding its outpatient endoscopy services to the new Markdale Hospital.
Brightshores Director of Clinical Integration Melissa Thomson says as of Monday, outpatient endoscopy procedures will be performed at the Markdale site, which screen for colon and rectal cancer.
“We did endoscopy and other minor (operating room) procedures prior to Covid in Markdale, but waited until we moved into the new building to bring endoscopy services back,” says Thomson.
She says by bringing this service to the Markdale site, they are able to move some of the lesser operating room procedures like endoscopy to the rural sites.
“Moving the invasive procedures to the rural sites means we can increase the (operating room) procedures that can only be done in Owen Sound,” says Thomson.
Endoscopy services will take place once a week at the Markdale site on Mondays.
“We do two days a week in Meaford, one day a week in both Southampton and Wiarton as well,” says Thomson. “That’s what the resources right now permit. As we grow the program, there may be opportunity to consolidate or to be able to increase the endoscopy or minor procedures at the rural sites even more than we already are doing currently.”
Those who require endoscopy procedures can schedule their appointments through their general surgeon’s office.
Site Manager Jennifer Ouellette adds, “this is a development that aligns with our ongoing commitment to providing comprehensive, accessible, and high-quality healthcare services to the community. We are dedicated to meeting the health care needs of our patients while leveraging the excellent facilities and space available in the hospital.”