Cancer Care Nova Scotia has established the Surgical Oncology Network (SON) to recognize and enhance the role of surgery in the cancer system.

Through Dr. Carman Giacomantonio of the Surgical Oncology Network, and the collegial collaboration established with the general surgeons, pathologists and diagnostic radiologists, the SON can address key surgical issues relating to quality of care, access, practice standards, mentoring and education.

Priorities of the Surgical Oncology Network are communications to enhance decision making, evidence-based guidelines, a high quality continuing education program and regionally based site reviews.

The main objectives of the SON are to

• improve the quality and accessibility of cancer surgery across Nova Scotia
• advance the multidisciplinary approach to cancer surgery
• provide educational opportunities for surgeons, pathologists and diagnostic radiologists
• promote partnerships with district health authorities medical directors, community surgeons, cancer tertiary centers and academic centers
• provide the atmosphere and vehicles for the sharing of ideas with peers and other colleagues
• provide evidence-based cancer surgical advice to CCNS, District Health Authorities and the Department of Health
• enhance knowledge-sharing and communication for physicians interested in cancer surgery.

Contacts:

Dr. Carman Giacomantonio
Clinical Leader
Surgical Oncology Network

For further information, or to request a site review or consultation from the Surgical Oncology Leader, please contact:
Sandra Cook
Project Manager, Surgical Oncology Network
Cancer Patient Navigation
(902) 473-3675
ccns.nshealth.ca