Members of the Limestone Coast Radiation Therapy Working Group recently toured the new cancer care suite at Mount Gambier Hospital. The group, led by Lachlan Haynes from Naracoorte, explored the facility currently under construction, which aims to enhance cancer treatment options in the region.
Although the new cancer care centre does not yet include radiotherapy, the working group remains hopeful that such services will be incorporated in the future. Haynes expressed gratitude for the tour, which was organized by Emma Poland, CEO of the Limestone Coast Health Network (LCHN), and Angela Miller, the director of governance and planning.
The facility, while still weeks away from completion, is designed to improve the overall experience for cancer patients and their caregivers. Haynes stated, “The centre looks to have a number of features making the treatment of cancers and pre and post care improved.” He emphasized that the new centre represents a significant step forward in providing better cancer care for residents of South Eastern Australia.
The working group, which includes many members who have personally experienced cancer treatments or support roles, views the new facility as a positive development for the region. Despite initial disappointment regarding funding allocation away from radiotherapy, the group is optimistic about future provisions for radiation treatment within the facility.
Haynes noted that the LCHN has communicated its commitment to ensure the new cancer centre aligns with the regional health care plan. It has kept the working group informed throughout the construction process, facilitating ongoing discussions about the potential for future radiation services.
He added, “The radiotherapy working group remains committed to having radiation treatment for the region.” Haynes highlighted the importance of local access to radiotherapy, explaining that many patients currently face significant challenges when required to travel interstate or to Adelaide for treatment.
According to Haynes, relocating for treatment often results in lost wages and additional costs related to managing personal responsibilities at home. He referenced a petition signed by over 20,000 people advocating for local radiotherapy services, underscoring the community’s understanding of these challenges.
In related developments, Naracoorte Hospital has three to four chemotherapy chairs available, supported by the state government’s $250,000 clinical services plan, which has received backing from the LCHN.
Previously, the LCHN decided against funding radiotherapy services, opting instead to support the establishment of the cancer care suite and additional parking facilities. This decision was affirmed through a feasibility study.
Last year, Tony Pasin, the federal member for Barker, criticized this feasibility study, calling it flawed. He emphasized the importance of the Radiation Oncology Access Coalition (ROAC), which he believes offers credible expertise to help inform government policy for better health outcomes. In 2019, Pasin secured $4.3 million in federal funding specifically earmarked for radiotherapy services.
As the construction of the new cancer care centre progresses, the Limestone Coast community continues to advocate for improved cancer care options that will ease the burden on patients and their families. The working group remains hopeful that their efforts will lead to the inclusion of radiation treatment in the near future, allowing local residents access to essential cancer therapies closer to home.
