Cancer services in Withybush Hospital remain a key focus as plans to build a new Chemotherapy Day Unit and a new Palliative Care, Haematology and Oncology Unit (currently known as Ward 10) continue to move forward as part of a proposed multi-million pound development.

Last Thursday, staff working at the hospital attended a drop-in session to discuss plans for the Ward 10 refurbishment, hear more about the progress being made and to share their views. A similar event for key stakeholders has been arranged for this week.

Interim hospital clinical lead, Dr Iain Robertson-Steel, said: “We are working with patients, relatives and carers, staff, local charities and fundraisers to improve cancer services locally. Regular communication and engagement activities are underway, including a survey of Ward 10 patients, their families and carers, co-ordinated by the Community Health Council, focusing on the patient environment and experience.”

Senior Sister Helen Johns added: “Today has been a positive start in redesigning, with our staff, the existing palliative care, oncology and haematology area (Ward 10) and we look forward to discussing them with our Stakeholder Group.”

The development of the proposed new unit, which is subject to more engagement and approval of a business case, will provide a modern, purpose-built inpatient facility for patients admitted to Withybush Hospital, enabling specialist palliative care, oncology and haematology services for our local population.

Funds held to date for the Ward 10 development amount to over £318,000 by the University Health Board’s Pembrokeshire Cancer Services Funds and Elly’s Ward 10 Flag Appeal. The University Health Board is preparing a submission to Welsh Government for the rest of the funding required for the development.

For the latest news and updates from Hywel Dda University Health Board visit www.hywelddahb.wales.nhs.uk