A NEW facility to support patients with cancer at The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust (PAHT) is set to open next spring.

The new Aseptic Unit, which will be used to make chemotherapy medication for patients with cancer, is being built at the rear of The Princess Alexandra Hospital, adjacent to the Williams Day Unit, where patients receive cancer treatment.

Although we are sure many residents will be pleased, it will once again thrown into question plans for a new hospital off the M11.

The pharmacy team will produce individually prepared chemotherapy treatment doses for oncology and haematology patients at the unit. This will enhance the service, with the new, modern facility supporting the manufacture of specific chemotherapy medications in the required dosages on The Princess Alexandra Hospital site. The improved space and equipment will largely eliminate the current intermittent need for external support.

An extension and renovation to previous office space, the work has begun to transform the area, improving the facilities available for patients ahead of the completion of the new hospital.

The Aseptic Unit will feature a modern suite of pharmacy clean rooms (a sterile environment for manufacturing medications), and equipment including two negative pressure isolators for thesafe handling andpreparation of chemotherapy. There will also be space to accommodate cancer services pharmacists, who clinically validate prescriptions, a dedicated dispensary for oral cancer treatments and other medication, together with a dedicated clinical trial medication office. 

John Biddulph, chief pharmacist at The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust, said: “We are delighted to see the construction of our new Aseptic Unit progressing at pace.

“This is a significant milestone in producing treatments for patients with cancer, with up-to-date technology and equipment. We are looking forward to the opening next spring.” 

Stephanie Lawton, chief operating officer, at The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust, said: “The new Aseptic Unit represents an investment of £2.5million in improving the experience for our patients with cancer and the working environment for our people.

“The modern facility will enhance the high quality care our dedicated teams provide – thank you to everyone involved.”