Chemotherapy & Infusion Services at Dunstan Hospital
At Dunstan Hospital, we provide specialised day-unit care for people requiring chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and other infusion treatments. Our service supports both cancer and non-cancer conditions, including neurological, gastroenterological, and rheumatology needs.
Over the years, the unit has grown from a one day a week service to operating four days a week. A team of highly trained specialist nurses deliver expert treatment alongside compassionate care. Our oncology service is further supported by the Oncology and Haematology specialists and Oncology nursing team based at Dunedin Hospital.
Medical Oncology Specialists from Dunedin hold fortnightly outpatient clinics on site at Dunstan, working in partnership with our specialist nurses and local medical staff. This collaboration ensures patients receive streamlined, coordinated care close to home. With on-site radiology and laboratory services available, most required tests can be completed while you are here at the hospital.
In addition to public services, we also provide private chemotherapy in partnership with Mercy Cancer Care (Dunedin) and St George’s Cancer Care Centre (Christchurch).
“This community deserves the very best care, and together we are trying to make that happen.”
— Sir Sam Neill, Patient and Patron of the Dunstan Hospital Foundation
Feature Interview
Keeping Cancer Care Closer to Home
As an oncologist working with patients across Otago and Southland, Dr Blair McLaren knows how difficult a cancer diagnosis can be, not just for patients, but for their families. He also knows that the distance between treatment centres can make a hard journey even harder. That’s why he’s passionate about bringing cancer care closer to home for the growing Central Otago community.
Receiving Chemotherapy at Dunstan Hospital
Chemotherapy is available at Dunstan Hospital up to four days each week. In most cases, your first treatment will be at Dunedin Hospital’s Chemotherapy Unit or your private oncology centre, where your Medical Oncology or Haematology Specialist will decide on your treatment plan. Occasionally, your first session may be held here at Dunstan. Along the way, nursing and other support staff will provide information, education, and support to help you feel prepared and cared for.
Our Chemotherapy Nurses work closely with the specialist team and have direct access to your personalised treatment plan through the Oncology patient management system. This ensures every treatment is delivered safely and consistently.
Treatment sessions can vary in length — from about an hour to a full day — and may be scheduled as frequently as four days in a row or as occasionally as once a month, depending on your individual plan. During this time, you’ll get to know our friendly and highly skilled team, who will support you throughout your care. Medical backup is always available from our Rural Medical Specialist Doctors on site, as well as from the Oncology and Haematology teams we collaborate with.
Our Day Unit is currently very busy, and while we are working toward expanding the facility, at present we can only accommodate one support person with you during treatment. We know how important it is to have loved ones close, and we look forward to offering more space and privacy in the future. In the meantime, our team goes above and beyond to make sure you and your whānau feel supported every step of the way.
Supportive Care
Cancer Psychological Support Services
At Dunstan Hospital, we understand that cancer care is about more than just medical treatment, it’s also about supporting your overall wellbeing.
The Health New Zealand Cancer Psychological & Social Support Service includes a Clinical Psychologist based on site and a Social Worker who visits regularly, providing emotional support, practical guidance, and help navigating the challenges of treatment.
Our Dunstan District Nursing team will support you in the comfort of your own home if required. In addition, our Allied Health team and Palliative Care Nurses are available to provide extra support whenever it’s needed.
Together, these services ensure you and your whānau are well supported physically, emotionally, and practically throughout your cancer journey.
FAQs
Top five frequently asked questions for Chemotherapy at Dunstan Hospital.
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In most cases, your first treatment will be at the Dunedin Hospital Chemotherapy Unit or at your private oncology centre, where your specialist will set up your treatment plan. Occasionally, your first session may be held at Dunstan Hospital.
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Treatment schedules vary depending on your plan. Some people have chemotherapy several days in a row, while others may only need treatment once a month or less often. Each session can last anywhere from one hour to a full day.
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Our highly trained Chemotherapy Nurses deliver your treatment and provide ongoing education and support. They work closely with your Oncology or Haematology Specialists and have access to your individual treatment plan. Our Rural Medical Specialists are also available on site if needed.
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Yes, you may bring one support person to sit with you during your treatment. Our Day Unit is very busy and space is limited, but we are working toward expanding the facility to offer more room and privacy in the future.
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We offer a range of supportive care services, including access to a Clinical Psychologist, Social Worker, District Nursing, Allied Health, and Palliative Care support when needed. These services are here to help with both the practical and emotional sides of your care.
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