Radiotherapy clinic - ‘close to home’ treatment

Auckland 28 May 2007

New private radiotherapy clinic promises ‘close to home’ treatment option

The Breast Cancer Aotearoa Coalition (BCAC) welcomed the announcement of plans to develop New Zealand’s first private radiotherapy centre in Auckland as a ‘significant step forward’ for the comprehensive treatment of cancer patients. The centre will effectively complement existing public services by offering a private option.

BCAC believes the establishment of the private facility could herald the development of comprehensive cancer treatment centres in New Zealand, reflecting a trend that has seen many other countries adopt this ‘one stop’ multidisciplinary approach to cancer care.

The centre is a joint initiative of MercyAscot and Southern Cross Hospitals. The new 1,000 sq. metre, two-level, purpose-built facility will replace an existing building on the northern side of MercyAscot’s Mountain Road, Epsom site and will offer comfortable surroundings with theatres, radiology, pre and post-operative care, a pharmacy and other essential amenities.

The clinic will provide radiotherapy services to the highest international standards. ‘The new radiotherapy centre will house one linear accelerator (radiotherapy machine) initially and will be a state-of-the-art facility equal to anything in the Southern Hemisphere,’ said MercyAscot spokesperson Dr Richard Fisher.

‘The proposed clinic will offer the option of a more timely provision of treatment for some women with breast cancer,’ said BCAC Chair Libby Burgess, ‘ and this will take pressure off the public system, hopefully reducing the waiting time for access to treatment. We hope this facility will eliminate the need for New Zealand women to travel to Australia to have radiotherapy within the recommended time frames.’

Ms Burgess said at least three insurance companies have agreed to cover costs for those receiving treatment at the clinic and discussions are ongoing with others. ‘This is wonderful news for women and their families,’ said Burgess. ‘The location of the new clinic is central and convenient. Such a facility will make it a little easier for women to have their families and supporters around them at a time when they need them the most.’

About the Breast Cancer Aotearoa Coalition www.breastcancer.org.nz

The Breast Cancer Aotearoa Coalition (BCAC) is an Incorporated Society with charitable status, presenting a unified voice to call for change, improvement and innovation on behalf of all New Zealand women experiencing breast cancer.

BCAC was formed in November, 2004 when twelve New Zealand breast cancer organisations came together at a forum to create one group. BCAC now has eighteen member organisations and is currently working on five major initiatives: to ensure consistent, high quality detection and treatment of breast cancer throughout New Zealand by promoting the development and implementation of evidence-based best practice guidelines; to support the prompt and effective implementation of the extended age breast-screening programme (45 to 69); to inform and advocate for improved access to breast cancer treatment drugs; to research and promote the provision of professional psychosocial services for breast cancer patients and their whanau, family, friends and supporters; to identify and promote breast cancer issues for Māori and Pacific Island women

To arrange an interview with a representative from the Breast Cancer Aotearoa Coalition, please contact:

ENDS

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