In a groundbreaking move for the medical sector in Newcastle, Mediclinic Newcastle, in collaboration with Dr Veijeren and Partners, has officially launched the Lorraine Homann Woman’s Wellness Centre.
The centre, which focuses on women’s health in the battle against breast cancer, was celebrated at an event on Wednesday evening, May 24, 2023.
Previously, residents of Newcastle had to seek such medical expertise outside the town, with patients being referred to Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban, or Pietermaritzburg. However, Mediclinic Newcastle has now introduced a range of treatment options, with the exception of radiotherapy, according to Japie Greyling, General Manager of Mediclinic Newcastle.
Greyling acknowledged that while radiotherapy was not currently available at Mediclinic Newcastle, the hospital is exploring avenues to establish this treatment in the near future. He further emphasised the significance of the Lorraine Homann Woman’s Wellness Centre, stating that the people of Newcastle should feel fortunate about its establishment.
Breast cancer treatment encompasses various approaches depending on the stage, type of cancer, and overall health of the women. Greyling highlighted the most common treatments, which include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and targeted therapy. He emphasised that breast cancer affects not only physical well-being but also patients’ emotional and mental health.
Mediclinic Newcastle offers a comprehensive range of treatments with the expertise of radiologists, oncologists, general surgeons, plastic and reconstructive surgeons, and mental health practitioners.
Moreover, the Lorraine Homann Woman’s Wellness Centre, named after the esteemed Dr Lorraine Homann, a specialist anaesthetist, aims to honour her legacy. Dr Homann exemplified qualities such as bravery, empathy, perseverance, and passion, making her an inspiring figure. Greyling expressed confidence that the centre will reflect Dr Homann’s exemplary traits.
To enhance breast cancer detection and provide optimal care, Mediclinic Newcastle has installed the Genius 3D mammography technology. This advanced technology is essential for early and thorough detection of breast cancer, ensuring appropriate patient treatment.
According to Dr Azizi Mkhize from Van Veijeren and Partners, women-centred healthcare is a crucial aspect that requires specialised services. She emphasised the increasing need for skilled care and high-level expertise in the population.
Dr Mkhize highlighted the technological advancements in medical knowledge and the introduction of Tomosynthesis (3D mammography) as a revolutionary imaging technique. The advantages of this new system include acquiring multiple non-overlapping thin slices of the breast tissue, providing higher quality 3D images, detecting more invasive breast cancers, and offering a more comfortable mammography experience for patients.
Early detection of cancer allows for swift intervention and the potential for a 100 percent cure.
Van Veijeren and Partners emphasised the need for a holistic approach to patient care, addressing psychological, emotional, and physical aspects. The Lorraine Homann Woman’s Wellness Centre adopts a multidisciplinary approach, combining oncology, surgical and psychology disciplines.
Dr Andre Homann, Dr Lorraine Homann’s brother, expressed his pride and honour at seeing a centre named after his sister. He described Dr Lorraine’s dedication to her career and patients, highlighting her passion and perseverance.
The opening of the Lorraine Homann Woman’s Wellness Centre marks a significant step in the fight against breast cancer. The centre is poised to provide better quality care for patients in Newcastle.
As the community embraces this new facility, it is expected to make a positive impact in the battle against breast cancer.
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