Geelong gets new cancer centre
Thursday, 15 September 2011 00:38
Greater Geelong is set to get a new state-of-the-art cancer centre, with a $26 million kick-start funding boost from the Gillard Government.
This exciting development which will save many lives includes a linear accelerator which will deliver radiation therapy, a 32-bed oncology ward, a 24-bed palliative care ward, and 20 new accommodation units.
The Geelong Cancer Centre will also have accommodation units for day oncology patients, consulting suites, and a day unit for chemotherapy in Portland as part of this project.
Darren Cheeseman said the new centre would put the region on the leading edge for facilities to help out people struggling with cancer.
"We all know that when cancer strikes a family it is always a tough time from the moment the news arrives. These facilities will give those families the confort that their fight is beig supprted by the best facilities and the best knowledge in the world."
Health Minister Ms Roxon said "Reducing people's chance of getting cancer and, treating it earlier and more effectively, are key priorities for the Gillard Government through national health reform," Ms Roxon said.
Darren Cheeseman said the accommodation units would help people in outlying areas such as Warnambool, Hamilton and other local outlying towns.
The $26 million grant was awarded under the Health and Hospitals Fund Regional Priority Round.
The new Victorian Government are being asked for a similar amount of funding but have yet to commit.
