Essex hospital to open new facility to support patients with cancer
The new unit will help doctors prepare chemo treatments
A new facility to support people with cancer is due to open in Harlow next year.
The Aseptic Unit will be built behind the Princess Alexandra Hospital, near the Williams Day Unit, where patients receive cancer treatment.
The new unit will help doctors prepare chemo treatments for patients - eliminating the need for external support.
It will feature a suite of pharmacy clean rooms (a sterile environment for manufacturing medications), and equipment including two negative pressure isolators for the safe handling and preparation 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, 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, 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.”