Tara Murray
Northern Health cancer patients will be able to receive some of their treatment at home as part of a new home-based care program.
The Northern Oncology and Haematology (NOAH) department within the Day Oncology Unit at Northern Health recently launched a new at-home service called NOAH@Home.
NOAH@Home provides oncology and haematology patients the opportunity to receive certain chemotherapy or supportive treatments in the comfort of their own homes.
Northern Health said a number of patients have already taken up the program and have reported feeling more comfortable while receiving treatment.
NOAH@Home liaison nurse Kaylene Probst said the innovative service will improve convenience for patients and benefit them in a number of ways.
“The program means patients no longer have to travel for appointments, there will be less stress on family who have to take time off work to bring their loved ones in for treatment, and patients are more relaxed in their homes,” she said.
“We are very excited to be able to offer a program like this, as it enables for a greater use of our nursing skills and gives patients the opportunity to decide where they would prefer to have their treatment.
“This past eight weeks has been a whirlwind of activity and hard work on behalf of all those involved, and it’s been a pleasure to be involved and to be able to pull this all together – ready to start a new chapter for cancer services and the Day Oncology Unit at Northern Health.”
Nurses are now on the road six days a week to administer treatment as part of the program.
Tara Murray
