UNDERSTANDING THE PATIENT EXPERIENCE SUPPORTS THE BUILD

TCQ Construction site manager Ben Wiles
In August 2019, TCQ Construction site manager Ben Wiles was diagnosed with kidney cancer.

He recalls the day – “I remember I was still working to finalise the handover of the new Campbelltown Hospital Drug Health Unit at the time,” he said.

“When I heard the doctor say the “C” word I was devastated. I just thought, what now?”

Within just a few short weeks of diagnosis, Ben was assessed by a cancer specialist and booked in for surgery.

While a 2.2 kilogram tumour that had overtaken his kidneys was removed, unfortunately, his left kidney could not be saved.

The good news however, just four weeks post-surgery, Mr Wiles was back on his feet and back at work delivering the Campbelltown Hospital redevelopment project.

“My experience surviving cancer has made me even more determined to ensure we are handing a quality facility back to the community,” he said.

“My surgery went for nine hours straight. Those doctors didn’t get a break. It really makes you think.

“Our medical professionals work so hard, they don’t get to clock off at the end of the day. They don’t stop. That’s why they deserve a first-class facility to help them do their job. I’m so proud to be a part of the team to deliver it back to them.”

Originally from Surrey in England, Ben said his mother was currently undergoing treatment for lung cancer in the UK.

Having witnessed the quality of service and care in both countries, he said he was relieved and grateful to have completed his cancer therapy here in Australia under the NSW public health system.

“Even though I entered the NSW health system as a public patient, my care was never compromised or second best,” he said.

“I had access to the best specialists and the best treatment options, and I was given a priority surgery date. I couldn’t have asked for more.

“Now that I understand the patient experience and their needs, I want to ensure they are getting a great hospital.”

Ben has worked for TCQ Construction for almost 15 years.

TCQ Construction was awarded the contract to deliver the new pharmacy, General Managers Unit and admin hub, Drug Health Unit and relocated services such as the Cashiers Desk and Uncle Ivan Lounge.