UPDATE: Patients at the Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre are expressing urgent fears over a significant transition to public management set for January 23, 2026. Distress is mounting among cancer patients who worry about losing continuity of care with their trusted oncologists.
Janine Barron, a cancer patient who has been receiving treatment since 2011, learned about the transition via a Facebook post, leaving her feeling blindsided. “Basically it said this is the date that it’s happening and Ramsay and Border Oncology have been evicted at the end of their leases and that was it,” she shared. Barron, a stage four cancer survivor, expressed her concern about potentially losing her oncologist, stating, “If I die of this I want [the oncologist] by my side, I don’t want a stranger.”
The shift to Albury Wodonga Health aims to ensure that cancer care continues without interruption. In a November 2025 update, officials stated they are working closely with local oncologists to maintain familiar care teams. “Border Medical Oncology will continue providing care until September 2026, so there will be no immediate change to your doctor or treatment team,” the update reassured.
However, many patients, including Barron, feel that communication has been inadequate. “I just wish I knew what their plans are,” she lamented. Concerns are escalating over rumors that the new system may consist of only one oncologist supported by multiple registrars, leading to a chaotic experience where patients could see different doctors each visit. “That’s what I’m scared of and that would totally do my head in,” Barron added.
Another patient, who requested anonymity, echoed these sentiments, highlighting how the uncertainty has intensified stress during an already challenging time. “If they communicated about what was happening, then the anxiety is taken away,” she explained. “At least we’d know what we’re dealing with, but there’s no communication.”
Calls for a pause on the transition are growing. The anonymous patient urges decision-makers to reconsider the timeline, stating, “I would like to see either a stop or a slowdown on any progression that they’re rushing to the 23rd of January because they don’t have a plan.” She insists that no changes should be made until stakeholders, including community members and health ministers, are fully informed.
As the January 2026 deadline approaches, patients remain anxious about their futures and the quality of care they will receive. The Albury Wodonga Regional Cancer Centre has long been praised as a benchmark for cancer treatment, offering a seamless experience with blood tests, consultations, and pharmacy services all in one location.
Patients like Janine Barron, who have relied on the center’s one-stop model, are left questioning the necessity of change. “The staff are brilliant, and it was a smooth, well-oiled machine; why change it?” she asked.
The situation continues to develop, and patients are encouraged to stay informed as more updates from Albury Wodonga Health are expected in the coming weeks. The urgency surrounding this transition emphasizes the need for transparency and communication to alleviate patient fears.
