[caption id="attachment_3137" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] HSAs medical oncologist Dr. Basil Armonis (centre) with chemotherapy nurses Rosanna Humphreys-Johnson and Andrew Ward.[/caption] The Health Services Authority is enhancing its cancer care services with the recruitment of a full-time medical oncologist to the staff of the Cayman Islands Hospital.When a person receives a cancer diagnosis it is important that the oncology services that individual needs are easily accessible, close to home.Dr. Basil Armonis, MD, PhD, Consultant Medical Oncologist originally from Athens, Greece, has joined the HSA oncology team as they work towards the enhancement of medical oncology at the Authority, as well as across the Cayman Islands.It is a pleasure to be a part of the HSA team and to be able to help patients in the Cayman Islands receiving the care they need and deserve close to home. Reducing the travel time for patients exposes them to less physical as well as less psychological distress, allows them more time to focus on healing and also spending quality time with family and friends doing the things they enjoy doing, said Dr. Armonis.Prior to Dr. Armonis employment, Dr. Gillian Wharfe, a visiting oncologist/hematologist, travelled from Jamaica at least once a month to treat patients. Dr. Wharfe, who has been working with the HSA since 2002, will continue to provide medical care for patients with hematological conditions.Utilizing the best medical equipment and technology science has to offer is just one aspect of quality medical oncology and cancer care. The other part, which is even more important, is the ability to deliver the best care possible in a way that is timely, accessible and efficient. Having Dr. Armonis, who has a wealth of knowledge and experience in oncology, helps us to achieve this. It is what people in our community diagnosed with cancer need and deserve from their primary provider of healthcare services, said Medical Director Dr. Delroy Jefferson.Dr. Armonis received his medical degree from the University of Rome and completed his fellowship in Medical Oncology (cancer care) at the University College London Hospital in UK. He earned a Summa cum Laude PhD degree for his pioneering translational research on breast cancer at the Department of Experimental Pharmacology of the University of Athens, in Greece. In 1996, he obtained the European Certification in Medical Oncology. Dr. Armonis holds a second specialisation in Internal Medicine and Full Registration as well as Specialist Registration in Medical Oncology with the General Medical Council (UK). Before moving to the Cayman Islands he was working as Director Medical Oncologist in oncology teaching hospitals in Athens. Dr. Armonis is also author and co-author of books, book chapters and articles published in international peer-reviewed journals. He speaks English, Greek and Italian fluently.To make an appointment with Dr. Armonis, please contact the Chemotherapy Unit at 244-2872.
