Officially opening next week, the Cancer Care Macarthur centre will offer faster access to specialists as well as novel therapies not yet commercially available.
A multimillion-dollar cancer care facility providing swifter access to specialist services as well as emerging treatments still undergoing development is set to open next week in South Western Sydney LHD (SWSLHD).
Cancer Care Macarthur, established by Cancer Care Associates and scheduled for an official launch on 27 August, will offer radiation oncology, medical oncology, oncology pharmacy and haematology services alongside state-of-the-art systemic chemotherapy and immunotherapy treatments such as the Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine.
Patients will also have access to allied health, counselling and support services, a multidisciplinary care team and can be fast-tracked for specialist appointments to start treatment sooner after previous delays or to receive a second opinion.
According to Cancer Care Macarthur CEO Damien Williams, the facility would significantly bolster the existing range of cancer care services available in Campbelltown with its combined investment in cutting-edge research and reducing specialist wait times.
“Cancer Care Macarthur offers southwest Sydney cancer patients affordable, comprehensive and quick access to consultations and treatment in state-of-the-art facilities,” he said.
“Quick access to care achieves the best outcomes for patients together with alleviating pressure on the public hospital systems. In addition to treatment, the Cancer Care Macarthur Centre is committed to advancing cancer research.
“This marks a pivotal milestone in our commitment to the local community and providing accessible, affordable and comprehensive cancer care in the heart of the Macarthur region.”
The centre has been approved for three clinical trials so far, allowing patients access to experimental drugs before they become commercially available, with funding provided by the Cancer Care Foundation.
Dr Raj Jagavkar, director and senior radiation oncologist at Cancer Care Macarthur, has been appointed to lead the trials alongside research director Professor Paul De Souza and medical oncologist Dr Mahmood Alam.
“On the ground connection is critical in southwest Sydney, and shared care and we are dedicated to fostering shared care and survivorship,” Professor De Souza said.
“We will be collaborating and connecting with our colleagues and our patients’ specialists and GPs for best treatment options and outcomes.”
