Patients in Western Victoria fighting blood cancer and their families will have access to a home away from home, with the Leukaemia Foundation’s new Victorian Patient Accommodation Centre now open.
Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney MP said the Centre had been designed to provide a clean, safe and home-like environment for those who would otherwise be forced to travel long distances for treatment.
Located in North Melbourne, the Centre was funded thanks to the generosity of donors and $500,000 from the Andrews Labor Government.
Providing 15 private family apartments, the Centre also includes onsite health professionals, an education and resources centre, a counselling room, a patient transport hub and a courtyard for patients and families to meet, relax and exercise.
The average length of treatment for acute leukaemia is six to eight months, with regional and rural patients required to stay in Melbourne for an average of four months.
The complex is located near many ofVictoria’s leading treatment centres and just across the road from the new Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre (VCCC).
Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre patients and staff last month moved into the $1 billion VCCC, which will provide the best in cancer research, treatment, education and care.
Blood cancers affect thousands of Victorians every year, but thanks to the work of the Leukaemia Foundation, there has been significant improvements in diagnosis and treatment.
The new Victorian Patient Accommodation Centre will help ensure patients have the emotional and practical support they need during treatment and recovery.
Quotes attributable to Gayle Tierney MP, Member for Western Victoria
“The new Victorian Patient Accommodation Centre will provide a much needed sanctuary for regional patients facing blood cancer, and their loved ones.”
“Travelling long distances for treatment takes a real toll on patients and their families. This will mean one less thing to worry about.”
“Knowing that they have their families close by during treatment will make a world of difference for local patients.”