General News
17 December, 2025
Hospital ups chemo care
ATHERTON Hospital’s oncology services will expand from three to five days per week, allowing more patients to receive care closer to home.
The increase in service will boost the number of locals receiving chemotherapy from an average of 15 per week to 25.
Announced by the State Government last week, close to $1 million had been invested to support additional staff and increase capacity.
Atherton Hospital patients receive overarching care from specialist cancer services at the Liz Plummer Cancer Centre at Cairns Hospital, before they are referred to the Atherton Hospital team for chemotherapy treatment.
Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Services chief executive Leena Singh said the oncology expansion was part of broader upgrades at Atherton Hospital, and in addition to the $12.9 million refurbishment of the existing South Ward.
“Expanding chemotherapy sessions at Atherton means fewer patients will need to traverse the Gillies Highway, which can be challenging at the best of times,” Ms Singh said.
“Preparatory works are underway to establish a temporary ward to support the South Ward refurbishment. Once complete, the new 25-bed unit will deliver modern, flexible care spaces that patients and staff deserve.”
Atherton oncology service nurse unit manager Colin Newnham said the team was proud to see the service grow and continue providing safe, personalised oncology care.
“Our team is dedicated to supporting patients through what can be the most challenging time of their lives,” Mr Newnham said.
“We are thrilled we can now offer more appointments each week and ensure more people receive the care they need closer to home.”
