A new $15 million cancer service at Maitland Private Hospital has more than doubled its oncology capacity, and can now see 150 patients a week.
The Maitland Cancer Centre has consulting space for medical oncology, radiation oncology, surgical and infusion patients, with day and night infusions supported by a critical care team and intensive care unit on-site.
Part of a 12-month long expansion project, the cancer centre incorporates a modern design, state-of-the-art equipment, views of East Maitland and additional on-site parking.
The centre will be supported by a team of five oncologists, two haematologists, and an experienced multi-disciplinary care team.
Maitland Cancer Centre director Rob Paterson said the new centre will improve patient experience as everything is now in one place.
"Patients really can come and see their oncologist and have their treatment all on the same site," Dr Paterson said. "The goal is to have everything through that single front door, so this is just another step to try and bring all those services all together and co-located, to try and minimise the running around that cancer patients sometimes have to do."
Dr Paterson said the modern facility is designed to increase comfort for patients.
"The addition of more chairs, larger support areas and the latest technology such as scalp cooling devices, will provide a much more comfortable environment for our patients," he said.
The centre has 12 purpose-built treatment chairs.
Maitland Private Hospital chief executive officer Peter Cizzio said the centre will benefit the Maitland community and surrounding areas.
When the hospital first started offering cancer treatment, he said it was the only service in the Hunter outside of Newcastle. "We opened the unit in 2019, obviously to start servicing the local community, and now expanding it to what is the long-term vision and a capacity to treat pretty much everyone from our local area for many years to come now with this expansion," he said.
In addition to the Maitland Cancer Centre, the on-site mental health unit The Barrington Clinic has also been expanded, with a further 24 private beds increasing the total to 68 inpatients. The new, modern mental health space includes therapy and sensory rooms and a private outdoor terrace.
"This is a fantastic development for our local community. Having brand new cancer and mental health facilities available for the residents of Maitland and the Hunter Valley, saves travel and ensures the best possible care for our patients," Mr Cizzio said.
The Barrington Clinic and Maitland Cancer Centre are now open, accepting referrals from both insured and self-funded patients.
