The first comprehensive private cancer care facility in Wellington, is to be established following the announcement of a partnership between Icon Group and New Zealand’s Acurity Health Group.

More than $20 million will be invested in the new cancer care centre at Acurity’s Wakefield Hospital, which will incorporate the latest oncology technology and treatment techniques to diagnose and treat patients.

Once completed, the new centre will have the capacity to treat 900 New Zealanders suffering from a range of cancers every year.

Icon Group CEO, Mark Middleton, said patients will benefit from the most sophisticated radiation oncology services in New Zealand.

“We are delighted to partner with Acurity Health Group, who are a leading operator of private hospitals in New Zealand, to deliver this service. Together, we will improve access to world-class private cancer care.

“The centre will feature radiation oncology facilities equipped with the latest Varian Truebeam system linear accelerators, which have been designed to advance the treatment of lung, breast, intracranial, prostate, head and neck, and other types of cancer.”

“This will set the bar for quality comprehensive private cancer care in New Zealand,” Acurity Chief Executive Ian England said.

“Acurity is always focused on expanding services at our hospitals. We’re pleased with this opportunity and the benefits and choice it will offer patients. Wellington has waited long enough for an integrated private cancer care centre.”

Mr England said the new private facility will complement the existing services provided by the Capital & Coast District Health Board (DHB).

“The DHB does a wonderful job caring for cancer patients, however our focus is on giving those New Zealanders with private health insurance a choice.”

“Private hospitals such as Acurity play a vital role in delivering healthcare services alongside the public health system to New Zealanders every year. This will help relieve pressure on the public health system and support cancer patients, not just in Wellington, but also the lower North Island and upper South Island.”

Up to 20 staff will be employed at the centre and Acurity is involved in encouraging discussions with a number of oncology specialists to care for patients.

The oncology unit will be operational by Christmas, with phase two including the linear accelerators and day infusion centre to be up and running in a new building as part of the first phase of the Wakefield Hospital re-development.