Surf Beach’s Glenice Loughnan (pictured) was one of the first patients to be treated at Bass Coast Health’s new cancer care centre when it officially opened on Monday.
“If this service wasn’t available I would have had to drive to Traralgon, which would have been a nightmare, especially if you don’t feel well on the way home,” Glenice said.
The Integrated Care Centre – also known as The L. Rigby Centre – was officially opened at Wonthaggi Hospital this week, for the first-time offering locals treatment including chemotherapy, infusions and supportive therapies.
Bass Coast Health CEO Jan Child said the centre’s opening meant local residents now no longer have to travel to Melbourne or Traralgon for comprehensive cancer care, with services provided by Alfred Health.
The centre was built with $1.46 million from the Federal Government, as well as $2.2 million in state government funding for ongoing costs.
Local groups such as the Phillip Island Health Hub Auxiliary have also contributed about $245,000 for furniture and equipment.
“I’m in good hands, I’m feeling great,” said Glenice, who is pictured here with nurses Genevieve Harvey and Erin Passarin.
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