Year to go until NHS Grampian’s world class ANCHOR Centre opens its doors
Published: 27/09/2022 15:18A world-class cancer and blood disorder treatment centre, being built in the north-east, will open its doors in a year.
Chief executive of NHS Grampian, Caroline Hiscox said the new multimillion pound ANCHOR Centre will be a “real game changer” when it opens to patients next autumn.
With 65,000 patients passing through its doors each year, the new facility – which is being built at the Foresterhill Health Campus, in Aberdeen - will revolutionise oncology and haematology care in the north of Scotland.
Caroline said: “I’m most excited about the difference The ANCHOR Centre is going to make for patients, families and our staff.
“I’m so proud that NHS Grampian is delivering a facility which will be truly world class and serve the whole of the north of Scotland.”
The 5,500sqm facility will bring together services including day patient and outpatient oncology and haematology services; pharmacy; research; non-clinical support teams; and radiotherapy. Grouping these services will greatly reduce patient journey times.
ANCHOR will also host a dedicated space for teenagers and young adults who are undergoing treatment, in an effort to give them their own space in a more relaxed atmosphere.
“It'll be a real game changer for haematology, radiotherapy and oncology patients and one that’ll allow our colleagues working there to go from strength to strength,” Caroline added.
“Right from the off, The ANCHOR Centre will welcome 65,000 patients through its doors every year and it will provide a stunning array of new clinical and treatment spaces.
“It’s been a long time in the planning and the teams involved have dedicated so much to getting to this point – but, today, I’m delighted - and honoured - to be able to confirm that The ANCHOR Centre is due to officially open its doors next September. So, just a year to go. Now that is really exciting.”
Being built alongside Grampian’s new Baird Family Hospital, at a combined cost of £244.8m, The ANCHOR Centre forms part of the biggest NHS capital project currently under way in Scotland.
Clinical lead for The ANCHOR Centre, Mike Greaves said: “Already there is excellent clinical care delivered for patients, who have cancer and blood disorders, in the north-east of Scotland.
“What I see as a major step forward is bringing this all together in one location, alongside radiotherapy.
“That will improve the patient experience, particularly around comfort, safety and privacy. It will also provide a much-improved working environment for my colleagues who work with these patients.”
Friends of ANCHOR are continuing to support NHS Grampian by raising funds to enhance the new building by complimenting the core equipment and furnishings being provided by the NHS.
The charity hopes to raise £2m for items including upgraded treatment chairs and contributing to art and environmental enhancements in the building.
For more information please visit www.bairdanchor.org/fundraising
