New cancer ward opens at Canberra Hospital


Released 17/02/2020

The ACT Government is committed to improving health care facilities and services to ensure Canberrans have access to the right healthcare, when and where they need it.

Cancer and haematology inpatients will now receive treatment in a new 22 bed state-of-the-art ward (14A) at the Canberra Hospital.

Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith said the opening of 14A was an example of the ACT Government’s commitment to modernising Canberra Hospital.

“The ACT Government has invested $17.3 million to redevelop two cancer wards at Canberra Hospital. With the opening of ward 14A, inpatients will receive treatment in a contemporary, comfortable and completely refurbished environment.

“The design was informed by staff, patients and their families to ensure the redevelopment of 14A was focussed on providing the best possible patient care.

“Cancer patients can spend months in hospital undergoing debilitating treatment. Canberra Health Services has taken great care in the design of 14A to ensure the new ward delivers what patients and their families and carers need to support them during this difficult treatment journey,” said Minister Stephen-Smith.

Ward 14A includes new medical equipment, more single bedrooms and day beds in each room for loved ones to stay if required. A new dining room provides a space for patients and their families to spend time together and encourages patients to eat, which can be a struggle for some patients during their treatment.

The ward also features additional positive pressure environments to reduce the risk of infection to immune-suppressed patients. These rooms are designed so that air flows out rather than in, keeping airborne bacteria away.

“These changes will allow Canberra Hospital staff to build on the exceptional care they already provide and offer a more comfortable environment for patients and those who support and care for them,” said Minister Stephen-Smith.

The full refurbishment of a second Cancer Ward (14B), is due for completion in the second half of 2020.

- Statement ends -

Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Media Releases


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