Following an extended period of patient-driven advocacy and campaigning, the province of British Columbia (BC) has made a significant move to address the substantial delays Parkinson's disease patients face in accessing Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgeries. 

Despite BC’s Ministry of Health increasing the availability of operating room time for DBS surgeries in 2019, the waitlist remained lengthy due to the strain on the province's only functional neurosurgeon, Dr. Christopher Honey. This has subjected some patients to wait times of up to five years for surgery, with a four-year wait for initial assessment alone.

The disparity in healthcare access was clear when compared to other provinces. BC has just one functional neurosurgeon for every five million people, whereas Saskatchewan, with a smaller population, boasts three neurosurgeons, virtually eliminating any waitlist. Similarly, Alberta, despite having fewer residents than BC, has managed a six-month waitlist with two qualified neurosurgeons. 

The announcement of Dr. Lang's appointment marks the realization of a commitment made by the Honourable Adrian Dix, BC’s Minister of Health, in 2019. The recruitment of an additional neurosurgeon with expertise in primary insertions has been challenging. Dr. Stefan Lang's appointment is expected to support the province's ability to provide timely DBS access, offering renewed hope to many who have been waiting years.

Dr. Lang's hiring is more than just an addition to the BC healthcare system. It's a monumental step towards improving health equity. It signifies a long-awaited victory for patient advocacy and a commitment to resolving a systemic issue that has affected Parkinson's patients' lives for far too long. Furthermore, it is a testament to the power of advocacy, the spirit of resilience, and the importance of providing timely and accessible healthcare for all.