General News
25 April, 2023
Haematology clinic a 'significant' step
Wimmera residents now have access to a new service offered through Wimmera Cancer Centre - a haematology clinic. Grampians Health has added the service in an effort to deliver more accessible care to regional communities. Haematologist Dr Adam Facey...
Wimmera residents now have access to a new service offered through Wimmera Cancer Centre - a haematology clinic.
Grampians Health has added the service in an effort to deliver more accessible care to regional communities.
Haematologist Dr Adam Facey is visiting fortnightly to allow patients to consult a specialist locally, and receive treatment if diagnosed with a blood disorder or cancer such as leukaemia, myeloma or lymphoma.
This will save many patients a trip to Ballarat or Melbourne to access haematology services.
Dr Facey said clotting and bleeding disorders were common in the community and the new haematology clinic represented a significant step forward in providing high-quality
healthcare services.
"Having a haematology service locally will mean faster, more convenient care," he said.
"While some patients might need more intensive treatment, it will save many patients unnecessary travel."
The clinic is staffed by support nurses, oncologists, allied health staff and has a palliative care service.
Carolyn Robertson, deputy chief operating officer for Grampians Health hospitals to the west of Ballarat, said that improving access to care and increasing the clinical capabilities was in line with major goals laid out in the organisation’s clinical-services plan.
She said the new haematology clinic represented a significant step forward in providing high-quality healthcare services to the local community.
“Patients will be able to receive the care they need closer to home," she said.
"This will help reduce the burden of travel and make managing their haematology-related conditions easier.
"We look forward to welcoming patients to the clinic and providing them with the specialist care they deserve.”
People using the clinic will need a doctor's referral.
Ms Robertson said people wanting more information about the service could phone 5381 9169 or fax a doctor's referral to 5320 3080.