The Taranaki Health Foundation is thrilled to announce a substantial grant of $1.5 million for the Taranaki Cancer Centre from the Toi Foundation for enhancements that will add to the comfort of patients and whānau using the facility.
This generous contribution in addition to the $56.1 million government construction funding from the health capital envelope will help ensure that people in Taranaki diagnosed with cancer can receive critical radiation treatment locally, reducing the need for extensive travel and alleviating the associated financial and emotional burden on patients and their whānau.
Each year, more than 600 people in Taranaki receive a cancer diagnosis, with over 300 requiring radiation treatment. These patients have had to travel to Palmerston North for treatment, often requiring lengthy stays away from home, increasing the impact their treatment has on them. With the establishment of the Taranaki Cancer Centre at Taranaki Base Hospital, the majority of patients receiving radiation therapy will only need to make one trip to Palmerston North for an initial consultation, after which they can receive further radiation therapy locally.
Taranaki Health Foundation Chairperson Brian Ropitini expressed gratitude for Toi Foundation's support.
“This grant represents a significant milestone in our mission to bring enhancements to healthcare in Taranaki. It means that patients can focus on their treatment and recovery without the additional stress of travel and time away from loved ones,” says Ropitini.
The integration of local cancer treatment services will not only improve health outcomes but also significantly reduce the direct and indirect costs currently associated with accessing radiation therapy outside the region. Patients will be able to continue working and remain close to their families, friends, and support networks while undergoing treatment.
The Taranaki Cancer Centre will also include 10 chemotherapy chairs, two isolation rooms, eight outpatient consultation rooms and a range of videoconferencing options to support virtual consultations and meetings.
Toi Foundation CEO Maria Ramsay emphasized the importance of investing in local healthcare services, stating, “Our commitment to the health and well-being of Taranaki communities has driven us to support this vital project. Ensuring access to high-quality cancer treatment close to home is essential for improving patient experiences and outcomes.”
The Taranaki Health Foundation extends its heartfelt appreciation to the Toi Foundation for their belief in and commitment to this project. This grant is a major boost to the $3.5 million target the Taranaki Health Foundation has for the Taranaki Cancer Centre.
100% of the money donated to the Taranaki Cancer Centre campaign will be used to provide enhancements that will improve the well-being for staff, patients and their families. For more information, and to help support this cause, visit thf.org.nz/cancer.