(Miramichi) July 14, 2017 - A new oncology clinic offering a modern, comfortable and private space for cancer patients and their families was officially opened today by Horizon Health Network (Horizon) and the Miramichi Regional Hospital Foundation (MRHF).

The Miramichi Regional Hospital oncology clinic has moved from a shared space in the Ambulatory Care Clinic to its own space on the third floor of the building. The new location will provide staff and patients an accessible and spacious area for treating all cancer types, including chemotherapy, supportive therapy, such as blood transfusions and injections, and patient and family education.

"I am proud to join with Horizon and the MRHF to open this new 4,000-square-foot unit that will provide improved access and privacy while offering better overall quality of care for cancer patients and their families," said Minister Bill Fraser on behalf of Health Minister Victor Boudreau.

Patient visits have increased dramatically since the clinic opened. In 2008-09, the clinic received 1,300 patient visits; today, the clinic records more than 3,500 patient visits every year.   

Because of the increasing demand, the previous treatment area had minimal space for family members to remain with patients during their treatment. The clinic offers five treatment stations, and space for family members to remain with patients while receiving care.

The clinic will also bring welcomed changes for staff, which includes nurses, physicians, pharmacists, social workers, dietitians, and allied health professionals, as well as volunteers.

Previously, the clinic shared 1,400-square-feet with ambulatory clinics. The confined space posed challenges for staff, such as no dedicated assessment room or space for education and family conferences.

"We are so fortunate to have our foundation partner with us to create this new clinic. The new clinic will allow our staff and physicians, patients and families to continue working collaboratively to provide the best treatment for each cancer patient," said Karen McGrath, President and CEO of Horizon. "This teamwork reinforces our focus on patient and family-centred care."

Horizon provided $65,000 for material for Phase 1 of this project (patient treatment area), and $60,000 for Phase 2 (other areas of oncology), and the Foundation provided $180,000 for the purchase of equipment and supplies.

"The Miramichi Regional Hospital Foundation is proud to fund the equipment and supply services of such a wonderful project that will help patients and families during difficult times," said Joanne Sellars, the Foundation's Executive Director.

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