Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (OUH) has signed an agreement with Milton Keynes University Hospital (MKUH) for a new radiotherapy centre in Milton Keynes in the UK. 

The Oxford University Hospitals Radiotherapy Centre @ Milton Keynes will be operated by clinicians at OUH and linked to the Milton Keynes Cancer Centre, launched in 2020. 

Construction works on the radiotherapy centre are progressing, with completion expected this year.  

Following construction, a six-month period is scheduled for setting up and commissioning tests of the specialist radiotherapy equipment.  

The goal is to begin treating patients at the new facility by the end of next year.  

The establishment of the new facility is a significant development for cancer patients in the region, who are currently required to travel to Oxford and other locations for treatment.  

The facility will also provide life-saving radiotherapy services much closer to home for the residents of Milton Keynes and the surrounding area. 

The collaboration between MKUH and OUH is an extension of their existing partnership, which includes OUH providing renal services and some emergency cardiology in Milton Keynes.  

With the new partnership, the local population is expected to gain better access to specialist care in the neighbourhood itself. 

Oxford University Hospitals chief operating officer Sara Randall said: “I am delighted that the Oxford University Hospitals Radiotherapy Centre @ Milton Keynes is now a step nearer; this follows many years of planning and hard work to get to this point. 

“The difference this new facility will make to local cancer patients and their families is so important. The reduction in travel time means less stress and anxiety and more time to do other things. This brings quality care closer to home for our patients, which reflects our trust values of compassion and excellence.”