More cancer patients in the Gawler and Barossa region will be able to access the treatment they need closer to home thanks to a new oncologist service at Gawler Health Service.

It is part of the Malinauskas Government’s commitment to recruit more specialist doctors to regional South Australia.

The new unit, which is part of a broader network of 15 regional cancer units, will mean patients across the Gawler, Barossa, Adelaide Hills and beyond will be able to access face-to-face time with a specialist without having to travel to metropolitan hospitals such as the Lyell McEwin.

The service will also help meet the growing demands of cancer treatment in regions, with patients being seen within 14 days of their doctor referral.

Joining the unit is oncologist Dr Cuong Do, who brings extensive experience in oncology specialist care and who will be supported by the regional network.

The new unit is part of the State Government’s broader commitment to expand and provide more specialist cancer care services in regional SA.

It brings together the collective expertise of 10 regional oncologists and several multi-disciplinary professionals who all come together to provide the highest standard of care for regional patients.

The new oncology service has been made possible through a partnership between the Rural Support Service and the Barossa Hills Fleurieu Local Health Network.

Patients can be referred to the service via their GP or treating specialist.

It is the latest boost to health services in Gawler and surrounding districts after the new $15 million Emergency Department at Gawler Hospital was opened in February.

The new ED more than tripled capacity with 12 adult acute treatment bays and two specialised paediatric treatment bays, the first of its kind in Gawler.

The Member for Light Mr Tony Piccolo said he welcomed the announcement of the new oncologist service at the Gawler Health Service as it would help reduce the stress of patients and families affected by cancer.

“Having cancer treatment can be an incredibly stressful and costly time for patients and their families, and having to travel long distances for treatment only adds to the trauma,” said Mr Piccolo.

“Having a more local service means more patients can be supported by family and friends, and reduces the cost and stress of travel.”

Mr Piccolo said he understood that South Australian born, Dr Do, undertook his medical training in Victoria and has returned to our state to provide oncology services to rural and regional South Australians.

“Dr Do will not only support local patients, but also their GPs. He will be on hand to discuss patients needs with their GP, which can only lead to better health care and outcomes.”

“This new service is a testament to the State Government’s commitment to improve health care for rural and regional South Australians.”

Quotes attributable to Chris Picton

At the last election we committed to recruiting more specialist doctors in regional SA, and that’s exactly what we’re doing.

This new service means that people living in Gawler and the surrounding region can receive their cancer treatment closer to home, while helping to take pressure off the

Lyell McEwin Hospital.

People should be able to receive quality health care no matter where they live, which is what the State Government is delivering.

Quotes attributable to Tony Piccolo, Member for Light

This will be a great boost for cancer patients in Gawler, Barossa and the surrounding region.

Being able to have chemotherapy close to home will provide greater comfort to the local community.

Almost everyone knows someone who has been affected by cancer, so that to have this service in Gawler will be greatly welcomed.

Quotes attributable to Rural Support Service Executive Director, Debbie Martin

Cancer patients in the Barossa, Adelaide Hills and wider region deserve access to specialist care close to home.

We are dedicated to equity in clinical care and are focused on delivering access to cancer care and support that are available in metropolitan areas for all regional South Australians.

Quotes attributable to Barossa Hills Fleurieu Local Health Network Chief Executive Officer, Bronwyn Masters

We are pleased cancer patients across our region will now have access to much needed specialist oncology care closer to home.

Our skilled staff are equally pleased about the opening of the new unit and are ready to provide support to local families, which highlights their dedication and commitment.