Starship's new cancer ward officially opened

Starship Children's Hospital's new multi-million dollar cancer ward has been officially opened.

The rebuilt Oncology and Haematology ward provides 18 beds in 18 single rooms, and includes a separate area for adolescents, as well as a parent's bed in each room.

Clinical director Dr Lochie Teague says research shows the new unit will boost survival rates, particularly for teens, because it is a more positive physical environment.

He says the new ward provides patients with the privacy they deserve throughout their difficult treatments.

-NEWSTALK ZB