The head of the Cancer Care Unit at Mount Isa Hospital, Rebecca Young, says most cancer patients can be treated locally in Mount Isa, rather than having to travel for treatment.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
“We have a very well equipped Cancer Care Unit with fully trained and qualified staff who are able to assist patients with their treatment,” Ms Young said.
While it is necessary for cancer patients to travel to Brisbane or Townsville for their initial operation, it is quite possible for patients to return to Mount Isa for their ongoing treatment in most cases, she said.
“We can give treatment for breast cancer, colo-rectal cancer, head and neck cancers, ovarian, pancreatic and prostate cancers. Blood cancers are the exception.
“Treatment can be discussed with staff and the patient’s specialist to decide on the best course of treatment for the patient.”
Ms Young said even with the Patient Travel Subsidy Scheme it was still expensive for patients to travel for treatment, when it was available closer to home.
“It’s expensive for the patient and expensive for the Health Service.
“We also have all the Allied Health professionals here to help with recovery: physiotherapists, dieticians, speech and language therapists and social workers.”
The Cancer Care Unit has five chemotherapy chairs available in their bright modern facility.
