On this page
- Cancer services - an overview
- Day Unit
- Mobile Chemotherapy Unit
- Acute Oncology Service
- Outpatient clinics
- Blood tests
Cancer services - an overview
Watch our video to learn more about the cancer services we provide at West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust.
Day Unit
The Day Unit, located within the Macmillan Unit, is where many patients receive chemotherapy. There are around 20 dedicated parking spaces available directly outside the unit for patient use.
We recognise that attending the Day Unit—whether for the first time or for ongoing treatment—can feel overwhelming. Our team is here to help you feel safe, supported and comfortable.
Before your first appointment, you may be asked to have blood tests taken 48 hours prior to starting treatment.
On the day of your first visit, please phone the Macmillan Day Unit on 01284 713040 in the morning to confirm that you are well enough to go ahead with your treatment.
When you arrive, a nurse or receptionist will greet you and help you get settled.
All treatments are checked by two nurses before they are given.
During your treatment, you will be connected to an IV (intravenous) machine. This is on wheels, which means you can move around and use the facilities as needed.
Contact the team
Macmillan Day Unit: 01284 713040
Treatments provided include
Chemotherapy – uses anti-cancer (cytotoxic) medicines to destroy cancer cells. Some treatments are taken as tablets or capsules, but most are given through a drip (infusion) into a vein.
Hormone therapy – works by changing the levels of certain hormones in the body to help slow or stop cancer growth.
Immunotherapy – helps your immune system find and attack cancer cells. These treatments can be natural substances made by the body or laboratory-made versions.
Symptom management – treatments and support to help relieve and manage symptoms related to cancer or its treatment.
Radiotherapy – uses high-energy X-rays to destroy cancer cells while limiting damage to healthy tissue. Radiotherapy is not provided at West Suffolk Hospital. Instead, your treatment will be arranged and overseen by our team and delivered at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, or at Ipswich Hospital or the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital, if these locations are more convenient.
Chemotherapy: what to expect
Mobile Chemotherapy Unit
The Mobile Chemotherapy Unit (MCU) provides cancer treatment closer to home, with regular stops in Sudbury, Thetford, Stowmarket and Newmarket.
Not all treatments can be delivered on the MCU, but you may be able to have your PICC or Groshong line flushed and redressed, as well as routine blood tests.
The unit is managed and staffed by the Macmillan Unit nursing team from West Suffolk Hospital, so you will be cared for by the same nurses you meet in the Macmillan Day Unit.
Appointments can be booked in the usual way, either through the Day Unit receptionist or with the nurse on the MCU.
The treatment space is fully equipped, air-conditioned, and designed to provide a light, calm and comfortable environment.
If you are unwell and unable to attend your appointment, please call the Acute Oncology Service emergency line on 07495 440616, and do not attend the Mobile Chemotherapy Unit.
Acute Oncology Service
Our Acute Oncology Service (AOS) provides urgent assessment and support for patients experiencing complications related to their cancer or cancer treatment. The service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
If you feel unwell, please contact the 24-hour helpline immediately so your symptoms can be assessed and managed as quickly as possible.
24-hour helpline: 07495 440616
You can find out more about the Acute Oncology Service on our dedicated information page.
Outpatient clinics
After your initial consultation, we will let you know the details of your follow-up outpatient appointment. This may take place face to face or by telephone. We will also tell you how long you can expect to wait for your appointment.
Contact the team
Outpatient reception: 01284 713267
Blood tests
Many patients receiving cancer treatment need regular blood tests. You can find information on how to book and where to attend on our blood tests page.