Released 03/12/2021
More Canberra Hospital cancer inpatients will receive treatment in completely refurbished surroundings following the opening of the second stage of the hospital’s cancer ward upgrades.
ACT Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith opened Ward 14B today, providing an updated patient and family friendly ward for our oncology patients - part of our major program of infrastructure works across the Canberra Hospital campus.
“The refurbished ward adds to our modernised cancer precinct at Canberra Hospital, including the treatment and consultation spaces at the Canberra Region Cancer Centre” Minister Stephen‑Smith said.
“Our dedicated health care workers are looking forward to caring for their patients in a new environment that will make a patient’s stay in the ward as pleasant as possible under very difficult and life challenging circumstances.
“The refurbishment of Ward 14B is the second stage of a $22.4 million project that also included the refurbished Ward 14A, which opened in 2019.
“The second stage of the project was put on hold in early 2020 to ensure Canberra Hospital maintained maximum capacity to respond to the potential for a surge in COVID-19 cases. Fortunately, the project was able to recommence last year and I’d like to thank the staff and contractors for their flexibility.
“This latest refurbishment provides 28 beds for Oncology patients, and four additional bed bays.
“These additional bed bays will be used this winter to assist with the short term and rapid intervention of patients and also provide additional capacity for Phase 1 trials as part of our Cancer Clinical Trials program.
“Ward 14B is another example of the ACT Government commitment to deliver patient-centred care in high quality modern facilities with our exceptional clinical expertise and care.
“The design and refurbishment have created a light, airy and welcoming space. The addition of the patient/family dining area and therapy gym space will enhance the holistic care provided to oncology patients and their families.
“I’d like to thank our patients, their families and health care consumers in contributing to the design of the ward.
“The team is now working with our Canberra Hospital Foundation and partners to fund the refurbishment of the courtyard space which will further enhance this part of the hospital campus,” Minister Stephen-Smith said.
- Statement ends -
Rachel Stephen-Smith, MLA | Media Releases