Patients and staff have welcomed the opening of a dedicated Haematology Infusion Suite at Basildon University Hospital. Patient Sandra Wells cut the ribbon to officially open the suite, alongside Stephen Metcalfe, MP for south Basildon and east Thurrock.
The suite provides more comfortable surroundings for patients who require non-chemotherapy infusions. The suite cost around £60,000 to refurbish and will treat around 35 patients per week, Monday to Friday. Until now non-chemotherapy patients were treated alongside the chemotherapy patients in the same room at the Haematology Day Unit on Orsett Ward.
Mrs Wells, 69, from Billericay, has a genetic condition called Common Variable Immune Deficiency, which means her body doesn’t produce sufficient antibodies. She feels better with an immunoglobulin transfusion every three weeks and has been coming to Basildon University Hospital for transfusions since 1997. She said: "The new suite is such a great improvement. There is more space and air conditioning, which is better because you can feel quite hot when you’re having treatment."
Clare Panniker, Chief Executive added: "It fantastic to have this facility, a calm, tranquil area for patient who need infusions and have to visit the hospital regularly."
