A resident of Calgary facing terminal cancer is urging health authorities in the region to reinstate a specialized phone line for cancer patients in southern Alberta that operates after regular hours. Natalie Kwadrans, diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer in 2019, has frequently utilized the on-call oncologist service at the Arthur J.E. Child Comprehensive Cancer Centre for medical concerns during evenings and weekends. However, upon returning home from a recent hospital stay lasting over 30 hours in the emergency room, she discovered that the service was no longer available.
Kwadrans, a mother of two, underwent angioplasty due to enlarged lymph nodes compressing a major vein, causing her to encounter worrying symptoms late at night after being discharged. Attempting to reach the on-call oncologist line for guidance, she was unsuccessful and informed that the service had been discontinued. This abrupt change has left Kwadrans and other cancer patients anxious, as the after-hours oncologists have played a crucial role in providing urgent prescriptions and advising on whether a visit to the ER is necessary.
In response, Acute Care Alberta explained that Health Link has assumed responsibility for managing after-hours symptoms for patients of the Arthur J.E. Child Comprehensive Cancer Centre since December 2, 2025. This transition aligns with the system already in place at the Cross Cancer Institute in Edmonton, aiming for consistent cancer care services across the province. Despite ACA’s assurance that the protocols have been endorsed by specialists, critics like Friends of Medicare express concerns about the potential negative impact on patient care and ER utilization.
Kwadrans, worried about the expertise of Health Link staff in addressing cancer-related issues, emphasizes the need for specialized care for oncology patients. She fears unnecessary ER visits due to her weakened immune system and potential exposure to infections. While ACA advises patients to identify themselves when contacting Health Link for tailored advice, Kwadrans and others advocate for the reinstatement of the on-call line to ensure prompt and appropriate care for cancer patients outside regular clinic hours.
