Bishop Patrick O Regan blesses new Cancer Centre

The St John of God Berwick Day Oncology Centre, that is now delivering a critical new service to cancer patients locally, held its official Opening Blessing Ceremony on Tuesday May 19, 2015.

19 May 2015

The Most Rev. Patrick O’Regan DD, Bishop of Sale, blessed and commissioned the Oncology Centre with other guests including: State Member for Gembrook Brad Battin, Federal Member for Latrobe Jason Wood, Casey Mayor Mick Moreland and Cardinia Mayor Leticia Wilmont as well as staff, volunteers and patients.

St John of God Berwick Hospital’s CEO, Lisa Norman said “We are honoured that Bishop O’Regan could lead the Blessing Ceremony and mark this significant occasion in bringing healthcare closer to home, for people undergoing cancer treatment.”

With 12 treatment spaces in the Oncology Centre and other cancer support services including radiotherapy, medical imaging, pharmacy and pathology on site, the centre provides an integrated cancer service that St John of God Berwick Hospital CEO Lisa Norman said was rarely found outside the centre of Melbourne.

“The collaboration between our hospital and other leading health care providers like St John of God Pathology, Radiation Oncology Victoria, MIA Radiology and HPS Pharmacy increases the capacity of the service and offers a unique model of integrated cancer care,” Lisa said.

“Demand for cancer services in the area has increased significantly in recent years and cancer survival is improved by offering services that allow early diagnosis and improved access to treatment.”

“The new Oncology Centre has been designed to be a calming and tranquil place for patients undergoing cancer treatment, with large windows offering natural light and views of Berwick and surrounding suburbs.

“We hope this environment is a place where family members feel comfortable to come and spend time with their loved ones during treatment. It also includes a wellness centre that offers patients and carers a comfortable, home like space to relax before or after treatment.

The St John of God Berwick Oncology Centre is in the new Specialist Centre at 55 Kangan Drive Berwick.

The Specialist Centre is owned by Generation Healthcare REIT (GHC) a long term owner of healthcare property with a proven track record in constructing healthcare facilities across Australia. The centre was constructed by Hansen Yunken and designed by Silver Thomas Hanley Architects, was custom built with the needs and comfort of patients in mind.

In April, St John of God Berwick Hospital and Generation Healthcare announced they have reached agreement to build a $120 million hospital development on Kangan Drive. All existing services provided by St John of God Berwick Hospital historic Gibb St site will be relocated to the new hospital.