Work has started on a new Oncology unit at Noble’s Hospital.
When complete it will offeri Island residents an expanded, state-of-the-art facility.
The purpose-built unit will arise from the conversion of the hospital’s former Ward 5.
It will provide therapy areas, several single patient rooms, clinic rooms within a new outpatients’ suite, dedicated waiting areas and a much improved working environment for doctors and nurses.
Patients attending for chemotherapy will have direct access to the new oncology unit, which has been designed with its front door opening directly onto a new parking area.
It means patients can come and go without using the main entrance at Noble’s or having to walk through hospital corridors, so reducing the risk of infection.
Easy access to facilities and privacy are a priority for many patients and it’s hoped the dedicated entrance will benefit those making regular visits.
The unit has been made possible thanks to the generosity of the Eric and Marion Scott Trust which has provided the majority of funding for the project.
10 chemotherapy stations in bays reserved for men and women will be offered - an increase on the current six chemo stations in one bay.
There will also be a room reserved for young adult patients which is being supported by Island charity Bridge the Gap.
Oncology facilities at Noble’s are currently based in the Newlands building, located in the grounds of Noble’s but unconnected to the main hospital.
Rehousing oncology within the main hospital building has become a priority, to ensure swift access to other facilities in an emergency and to provide a permanent hub for oncology specialist clinicians and nurses.
Island developers SCS were appointed contractors for the project in December 2018 after an open procurement process.
The firm secured the site and moved plant and facilities into place over the Christmas holiday period.
The project involves the careful sealing of former Ward 5 to contain the works, the creation of temporary new entrances to adjoining wards and installation of sound-proofing, to minimise disruption to staff and patients.
Health and Social Care Minister David Ashford says: "We’ve been exacting in our specification for the new oncology unit, which will provide better facilities for patients and improve their overall experience, whether coming for their initial appointment or attending chemotherapy sessions.
"I offer the department’s sincere thanks to the Eric and Marion Scott Scott Trust, whose support for projects to improve the healthcare of our population is well known and widely admired.
"Having a building project take place within a busy working hospital is a demanding exercise.
"It’s logistically complex but I have every confidence SCS will deliver the project with minimum disruption – although inevitably, there will be some.
"I also thank in advance staff based in wards adjoining the work site for the unlimited patience and professionalism I’m sure they will show amid the upheaval."
Contractors are due to complete their work in late spring; the unit will then be furnished and fitted out before opening in the summer.
