Modern Medicines Are Lacking for Cancer Patients, Says Clinic Head 0 10

According to Siviņš, there is currently no funding allocated for innovative oncology drugs, which poses the risk that "we may become the only country in Europe where funding for innovative medications for cancer diseases is not provided at all."

There is a lack of funds for both innovative targeted therapy drugs and immunotherapy — funding for them has not yet been found, and solutions are being sought, noted Armand Siviņš, who is not only the head of the LOC oncology surgery clinic but also an active oncological surgeon.

Speaking about the relocation of the Latvian Oncology Center (LOC) to the 'Gailezers' inpatient facility during renovations, A. Siviņš told Latvian Radio that within the next month, doctors will plan all the surgeries that will be performed in the new premises. Oncology surgery will move to the ninth and first buildings, where there will be a total of 104–106 beds, which is slightly less than currently. In early February, the breast surgery department will move to 'Gailezers', followed by gynecological oncology, Siviņš explained.

"I admit that the most significant bottleneck in this process will be the intensive care unit. I hope that the doctors from neighboring hospitals will not hinder our work, although there is a certain threat. We have as many operating tables as needed. We are ready to move and work, but the number of intensive care beds is determined by the management of the intensive care unit at the 'Gailezers' hospital," Siviņš told Latvian Radio.

Overall, it is promised that during the renovation of LOC, cancer patients will be provided with everything as before.

Active construction work at the Latvian Oncology Center will begin at the end of March — early April. On Thursday, January 15, a symbolic signing of the contract for the execution of works took place.