Chemo moving at Altnagelvin

The move is part of the preparation works for the building of the new Radiotherapy Unit for the North West which is due to open in 2016.

Those patients directly affected by the move have already received a letter describing the changes and outlining the new location of the Chemotherapy and Outpatient services.

Speaking about the works Elizabeth England, Macmillan Lead Nurse and General Manager Cancer Services, Western Trust said: “This is a very exciting chapter in the life of the Cancer Unit.

“The first part of the Radiotherapy Unit programme will be completed in three phases. Phase one will involve the relocation of staff offices. Phase two will involve moving the Outpatient Clinic rooms and phase three will see the Chemotherapy Treatment area, which is the current Sperrin Unit, move to another area of the Hospital.

“The development work in the Sperrin Unit and the building work for the Radiotherapy Unit is expected to take between 18-24 months.

“All of the works have been carefully planned and the Western Trust will be doing its best to minimise any disruption in services.”

Phase one is expected to commence in July 2014 and is unlikely to have any impact on patient services.

Phase two is expected to start in August 2014. Phase three is expected to start in September and will see the Chemotherapy Treatment Room (Sperrin Unit) move to ground floor of the Tower Block of the main Hospital.

Further information on the new Radiotherapy Unit at Altnagelvin Hospital and the associated works is available via the Western Trust website www.westerntrust.hscni.net and through the Western Trust’s social media channels.