A new ‘Transport to Treatment’ service for Byron and Tweed Shire residents has been set up by Cancer Council NSW.
Since opening in 2024 the Tweed Valley Hospital has increased the range of cancer treatments offered with on-site radiation therapy now added to the hospital’s suite of oncology services,meaning more cancer patients need to get to and from appointments at the new hospital.
‘Transport to Treatment has volunteer drivers who are at the heart of the service. Without their kindness and dedication, Cancer Council NSW would not be able to help those impacted by cancer access treatment,’ said a Cancer Council spokesperson.
‘This service aims to meet the needs of eligible patients living in regional and rural areas in the Tweed and Byron Shires,’ said Cancer Council NSW Byron Bay Community Lead Caitlyn Feldmann.
New cancer services
‘Access to transport can be difficult in these communities, therefore compounding the impact of cancer. We thank our volunteer drivers who will be supporting this service, without them, none of this would be possible.’
Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) Director Cancer Services and Innovation, Stephen Manley, said there are about 150 patients a day that access Tweed Valley Hospital for treatment and consultations with the oncology team.
‘We are grateful for the additional support offered to them by Cancer Council NSW through this fantastic new service,’ he said.
‘A diagnosis of cancer can have a significant impact on a person and their family from a health perspective but also from a financial perspective. The focus on timely, high-quality treatment while maintaining a job, family life, or running a business can all be very challenging.
‘Having access to a free transport service that helps to reduce the costs and impacts of attending regular hospital visits can help patients and families focus on their treatment and minimise disruption to other aspects of their lives.’
Patients in need of this free transport service are asked to call the Cancer Council information and support line on 13 11 20 where an expert team of health professionals will be on hand to navigate what support is available. Phone the Byron office at 02 6639 1300 or ask your doctor to refer you to Cancer Council services via the healthcare professional site.
Can you volunteer?
The Cancer Council is looking for more volunteer drivers to help support those in the Tweed and Byron areas. If you want to apply or find out more, please contact the Cancer Council Byron office at 02 6639 1300.
‘For cancer information and support call Cancer Council’s 13 11 20 information and support line’.
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