By ANEEKA SIMONIS
A CANCER treatment centre in Berwick celebrated its official opening earlier this week. St John of God’s (SJOG) state-of-the-art day oncology centre in Berwick was officially opened by Bishop Patrick O’Regan on Tuesday 19 May in the company of dignitaries Gembrook MP Brad Battin, City of Casey mayor Mick Morland and Cardinia Shire mayor Leticia Wilmot.
The centre, which began treating patients in mid-March, was built to meet the growing demand for cancer treatment services in the state’s south-east, according to SJOG CEO Lisa Norman.
“Demand for cancer services in the area has increased significantly in recent years, and cancer survival is improved by offering services that allow early diagnosis and improved access to treatment,” she said.
The centre, which treats in excess of 120 oncology patients per month, currently has 12 treatment spaces but will expand in the coming months as more cancer sufferers move away from CBD-based treatments for equivalent services closer to home.
The centre provides an integrated cancer-care service with radiotherapy, medical imaging, pharmacy and pathology on-site.
“It also includes a wellness centre that offers patients and carers a comfortable, home like space to relax before or after treatment,” Ms Norman said.
Radiotherapy appointments at the new facility have exceeded expectations, with an average of 30 people being treated at the facility each week.
George Nicholson, 76, was the first patient to be treated at the centre and described it as “very comfortable”.
Mr Battin congratulated the hospital on delivering a “positive“ community asset at the opening event.
The site, located on Kangan Drive, is fast becoming one of the largest, most comprehensive medical hubs in the south-east.
Last month, SJOG announced it will build a new $120 million hospital to connect to the newly opened oncology facility.
“It will provide more than 190 new beds, six operating theatres, two endoscopy theatres, a cardiac/vascular catheter laboratory, six birthing suites and approximately 350 basement car parks,” Ms Norman said.
“It will also provide the first Intensive Care Unit for the region and a comprehensive range of cardiac services, including a dedicated cardiac unit.”
Casey Hospital, located directly opposite SJOG’s oncology unit, will also expand following a $106 million handout from in the recently announced State Budget.
The Andrews Government said the multi-million dollar investment would see the public hospital treat 12,000 more patients, perform 8000 more surgeries and support 500 more births.
