Major step forward for local treatment options
In a major boost to Northland’s health services, work has started on building a $60.9 million clinic for radiation treatment of cancer.
The start of construction was marked on the site by Whangārei MP and Health Minister Dr Shane Reti.
When complete, the Whangārei facility will provide comprehensive cancer services, removing the need for Northlanders to travel outside the region to get treatment.
According to Health Ministry figures, about 520 Northlanders travel to Auckland for radiotherapy each year because our region doesn’t have the appropriate equipment. “We know the impact that travelling long distances has on patients and their whānau,” Reti said.
This new facility will provide the region’s first linear accelerator (LINAC) machine which is used for radiation treatment. When finished, it will also include two bunkers providing space for a second LINAC in the future when capacity demands, a CT scanner and extra chemotherapy spaces.
“Having a linear accelerator (LINAC) facility at Whangārei Hospital will support more timely access for these patients from right across Te
Tai Tokerau, many from very remote areas of the district,” Reti said.
“The Jim Carney Cancer Treatment Centre already means a huge amount to the people of Whangārei, and wider Northland, and I’m delighted it will be expanded to meet the additional demand. Providing care closer to home will support patients to attend their appointments and treatment, reduce the impact on their lives and be closer to whānau. That support is so important ... when our family members are sick.”
Reti said he was determined to turn things around for health.
“As a National MP, as well as having the health portfolio.
“I’m proud we’ve already supported a number of steps for people with cancer, including our commitment to raise the breast screening age to 74, providing better access to PET-CT scans no matter where people live, and, through Pharmac, providing access to several new treatments for breast and blood cancer,” he said.