Oncology care closer to home: Florești patients do not travel to Chișinău
Cancer patients in the northern part of the country no longer need to travel to Chisinau for chemotherapy. Oncology specialists at the Floresti District Hospital now provide these treatments, offering relief to patients in their local area. Many patients have been waiting a long time for this improvement, as the journey to the Oncology Institute in Chisinau was exhausting.
Vasile Munteanu, a resident of Varvareuca village, Florești district, is battling gastric cancer. The disease was detected at an early stage, and he is currently undergoing regular chemotherapy sessions.
"I also had treatments last year in Chișinău. It was very far away and, above all, very expensive. Now, it is much better and more convenient. I am at home. If I need assistance, I can just go to the hospital, and the issue is resolved," says Vasile Munteanu.
The specialists at the Florești District Hospital care for approximately 1,500 patients. Each patient has a treatment record, and medications are provided based on their individual needs.
"This program is very beneficial for our patients. They are often dealing with serious illnesses. Both physically and psychologically, it can be difficult for them to travel to Chișinău. Sometimes they require help, and two or three family members have to accompany them," explains oncologist Elena Ivanes.
The treatment plan for each patient is determined by specialists from the Oncological Institute in Chișinău. Only those with moderately severe conditions are eligible to receive treatment at district hospitals.
"Any patient willing to receive chemotherapy services in our facility is accepted. The challenge is that they come for treatment during the day and return home in the evening. For their next chemotherapy session, they will again be hospitalized during the day," states Ludmila Capcelea, the director of the Florești District Hospital.
Chemotherapy services are also available in the district hospitals of Sângerei, Briceni, Orhei and Cahul. The measure is part of the decentralization process of oncology services. The mandatory health insurance policy covers cancer treatment costs.
