New NHS Site Open

By MAGGIE BARRY

SCOTLAND’S pounds 115million cancer centre – one of the most advanced in Europe – was officially opened yesterday by First Minister Alex Salmond, accompanied by Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon.

The Beatson, in Glasgow, will provide cuttingedge cancer care for 2.6 million people in the west of Scotland and boasts state-of-the- art equipment.

It has 11 radiotherapy units, three radioactive source treatment units and MRI scanners. Mr Salmond said: “Scotland’s fight against cancer is led by a dedicated NHS workforce, technology and groundbreaking research.

“The Beatson’s greatest strength is bringing these things together to ensure people get healthcare and support they need when they most need it.”

He added: “It’s impressive and inspiring environment has clearly been developed around the need to provide the best possible treatment for the 9,000 patients who will come through its door each year.”

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde chief Andrew Robertson said it was a “gold standard” facility.

The first PET-CT scanner for the west of Scotland is also located beside the centre.

It allows doctors to map cancer tissue more accurately and gives an early insight into how a patient’s treatment is progressing.

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