The Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) is reporting significant progress on several initiatives outlined in its…
QEH Delivering World-Class Cancer Care with Advanced Halcyon Radiation Therapy System
The Queen Elizabeth Hospital continues to strengthen cancer care in Barbados through the successful implementation of its advanced Halcyon Radiation Therapy System, providing patients with access to modern, world-class treatment closer to home.
During a recent appearance on CBC TV8’s Mornin’ Barbados, Medical Physicist Mr. Corey Drakes and Radiation Oncologist Dr. Lalitha Sripathi highlighted the significant impact the technology is already having on patient care.
The Halcyon system, a modern medical linear accelerator, allows clinicians to deliver highly precise radiation treatments using advanced imaging technology. This enables treatment teams to accurately target tumours while minimising exposure to surrounding healthy tissue.
“Radiation therapy today is significantly more precise than previous generations of technology,” explained Mr. Drakes. “The Halcyon system allows us to verify patient positioning before treatment and deliver highly accurate radiation therapy safely and efficiently.”
The introduction of the technology represents a major advancement from the cobalt-based treatment systems previously used at the hospital. According to Mr. Drakes, the investment ensures Barbadians can access internationally recognised standards of care without needing to travel overseas for treatment.
Since treating its first patient in November 2025, the Radiation Oncology Department has continued to expand its services.
“In just six months, more than 130 patients have started treatment, and we have already completed treatment courses for over 100 patients,” Mr. Drakes noted. “This is only the beginning as we continue to build expertise and strengthen our services.”
Dr. Sripathi explained that the Halcyon system allows the department to treat a wide range of cancers commonly diagnosed in Barbados, including breast, prostate, cervical, uterine, lung, head and neck cancers, among others.
“We are now able to provide advanced, image-guided radiation treatments comparable to those available in developed nations,” she said. “The precision of these treatments allows us to deliver higher doses to tumours while sparing healthy tissue, resulting in better outcomes and fewer side effects for patients.”
Beyond technological advancements, Dr. Sripathi also sought to reassure members of the public facing a cancer diagnosis.
“A cancer diagnosis is not a death sentence,” she said. “Many cancers can be effectively treated and managed. Our goal is not only to control disease, but also to preserve quality of life and support patients throughout their journey.”
The clinicians also encouraged Barbadians to reduce their cancer risk through healthy lifestyle choices, including maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy weight, and participating in recommended health screenings.
The QEH remains committed to expanding access to advanced cancer care while continuing to invest in the people, technology, and training necessary to deliver high-quality healthcare for the people of Barbados.
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