More rural patients in the Wide Bay region can now receive vital cancer care closer to home with the expansion of Wide Bay Hospital and Health Service’s (WBHHS) tele-chemo program.
The remote chemotherapy program not only delivers chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted anti-cancer therapies but also fosters a personalised experience for patients.
Since the service was initially piloted in Monto in 2016, it has since grown to include Gayndah, Gin Gin, and Biggenden, providing patients with quality care without the burden of extensive travel.
The service will now be expanded to three additional locations, with Mundubbera already operational, training underway in Eidsvold followed by Childers.
These additional locations will see the WBHHS reach its goal of servicing all seven rural hospitals in its region.
Under the expert supervision of tele-chemo nurses in Bundaberg, rural tele-chemo nurses administer treatments in local hospitals, ensuring continuity of care and patient safety.
One Gayndah local described the service as a much more personalised experience and said that it means she no longer needs to take a four-hour return trip to access chemotherapy and can stay closer to home.
The expanded service complements the Miles Government’s commitment to improve access to healthcare for Queenslanders, particularly in rural, remote, and regional parts of the state.
Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services Shannon Fentiman said the Queensland Cancer Strategy 2032 would revolutionise cancer care across the state.
“We know cancer treatment is never easy, especially for Queenslanders living in
rural, remote, and regional parts of the state,” Shannon said.
“That’s why it’s wonderful to see this successful service expanded to deliver more
potentially life-saving treatment and care, closer to home.
“It means residents are getting the care they need in their community without having
to travel long hours for treatment in Bundaberg.
“This expanded service is just one way our government is working to improve access
to cancer care and treatment.”
WBHHS Chief Executive Debbie Carroll said the program had made a significant impact to rural patients, with 526 anticancer infusions provided over the last four years.
“One of the highlights of the offering is hearing the positive feedback from our patients who can receive the right care, in the right place, at the right time,” she said.
“This service is all part of our commitment to ensuring services are delivered equitable and accessible to the community.”
Member for Bundaberg Tom Smith said it was fantastic news for residents living in Mundubbera, Eidsvold, and Childers.
“Our health heroes at Bundy Hospital deliver exceptional cancer care and treatment,
and now they’re delivering more care, closer to home for Wide Bay residents,” he said.
