€35m cancer treatment unit to open in CUH soon

A STATE-of-the-art cancer treatment unit in Cork will be completed in the coming months.

The new radiation oncology unit at Cork University Hospital is nearing completion.

The €35m centre aims to provide state-of-the-art cancer treatment and care and is a combined project between CUH and the renowned UK cancer centre in Christie Hospital.

The entire building in CUH, right down to its colour scheme, has been designed to minimise the stress of cancer treatment and provide optimum patient flow.

The new centre at CUH is part of the Government’s plan to develop a network of specialist services for cancer patients.

Health Minister Simon Harris also confirmed that extra staff who will work in the new expanded service are already in place.

Senator Colm Burke said: “I am delighted to have been informed that the facility will be fully equipped, commissioned, and become operational early in 2020.”

According to Minister Harris, the construction of the new facility is a key component of the National Plan for Radiation Oncology and its delivery will not be delayed arising from the cost involved at the New Children’s Hospital.

“This facility is vital for the area. Due to the projected increases in cancer incidence, arising from an increasing and an ageing population, demand for radiation oncology services is expected to grow,” added Senator Burke.