FLINDERS MP Greg Hunt was back at The Bays Hospital, Mornington last week signing off on the federal government’s $10 million promise for a “comprehensive cancer centre”.
The money, announced by Mr Hunt in the lead up to the May federal election, will go towards “a new multi-storey centre on the current hospital footprint in Mornington to provide the local community with world class comprehensive cancer care and support”.
The hospital must now raise $10m to match the government’s contribution.
“Every day, doctors and nurses here at The Bays are striving to improve community health on the Peninsula,” Mr Hunt, who is also health minister, said.
“This agreement gives The Bays the ability to continue their development of world class treatment and research facilities, for the benefit of the local community.”
“Funding encompassing radiation oncology, clinical trials laboratory, consulting suites, and meeting education and support areas for patients affected by cancer, will help The Bays continue to save lives and protect lives.”
The news release issued by Mr Hunt’s office quoted the hospital’s CEO Elena Allen, as saying the new centre would help “improve outcomes for patients and their families”.
In April, Ms Allen was “fully optimistic” the new centre could up and running in 18 months to two years if the hospital could raise another $10 million (“Bringing cancer treatment closer to home” The News 1/4/19).
“Care provided close to home improves patient outcomes and reduces anxiety for the patient and their family. Patients will now have access to a treatment plan in one location at The Bays incorporating; diagnostic, medical and surgical intervention,” Ms Allen said.
Consulting medical oncologist Dr Muhammad Alamgeer said “the real revolution of cancer care since the discovery of chemotherapy has been the practice of personalised care, which means matching the latest treatments to individual patient characteristics”.
Peter Wickenden from The Bays Board of Directors added: “We’re excited about extending our oncology services; this project is a significant step for us to meet the growth in demand for cancer care and related services in the community.”
First published in the Mornington News – 2 July 2019
