Funding approved for eight cancer projects across south west region
By Liudmyla Bortok
Cancer patients and their families can expect better care, faster diagnosis and more support thanks to a major new €2.3 million investment in cancer services in the south-west.
More than 16 healthcare jobs will be funded, including nurses, doctors and oncology support staff, and 8 new projects will be supported across Cork and Kerry.
Under the funding, provided through the National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP), services will be expanded to offer quicker diagnosis, more personalised treatment, and extra help for those at risk of, or recovering from, cancer.
New supports include: · Faster access to diagnosis through strengthened early detection clinics
· Specialist care for teenagers and young adults with cancer, who often have unique needs · A new family breast cancer pathway, helping to catch cancer earlier in high-risk families
· Extra staff to support recovery, such as occupational therapy and speech and language services
· Better care at home or in hospital, helping patients avoid emergency departments during treatment.
Dr Andy Phillips, Regional Executive Officer for HSE South West, said: “This isn’t just an investment in equipment or buildings – it’s an investment in people.
“We’re building services that patients and families can trust, during some of the most difficult times in their lives.”
A new patient support worker for breast cancer patients will also be recruited, and additional staff will work with survivors to make sure they have the care and guidance they need after treatment ends.
Dr Dearbhaile Collins, Clinical Director of Cancer Services at Cork University Hospital, added:
“These new staff will allow us to provide the best care possible, especially for young people, patients on oral cancer treatments, and families who need support and information.”
The funding, announced by the HSE South West will create 16.5 new healthcare jobs.
Most of the new posts will be based at Cork University Hospital, with others at Mercy University Hospital and University Hospital Kerry.
Recruitment is already under way.