Cancer Council Victoria has launched a Cancer Services guide to
help Victorians affected by cancer, providing a roadmap for patients and
survivors by directing them to local services and information in their area.
The guide includes over 470 services across Victoria and covers
topics such as:
-
Physical
health and wellbeing,
-
support for
culturally diverse communities,
-
services
offered to survivors and
-
organisations
and agencies that can provide practical and financial assistance.
The last edition of the guide was published in 2012, and funds
raised through Dry July in 2016
allowed for an update and expansion of this invaluable resource. The new edition is nearly double in size and
now includes tips and information to help guide people to access the services
they might need.
Features of the guide include:
-
Categories
that cover the cancer experience from diagnosis, treatment and life after
cancer
-
Listing of
services by metropolitan and regional areas
-
Colour coded
information and education boxes. These are segregated into three sections;
things to consider, how to access Cancer Council Victoria information and
support and internet tips and search terms.
Matthew, a cancer survivor and Cancer
Council Victoria volunteer said: "The guide is an excellent resource that provides
an overview of the services that people with cancer and their families are
likely to need at an overwhelming time. I found the guide was very
comprehensive and included relevant organisations and websites. Although I've
been in remission for two years, I still found at least two organisations I was
previously unaware of and will now engage with."
Cancer Council Victoria CEO Todd Harper said there are many things
that come along with a cancer diagnosis, some of which may be a shock to
patients, their loved ones and carers.
"We know that finding the right support when it's needed is vital
for cancer patients and those close to them as they deal with the news of a
diagnosis, cancer treatment, life after cancer or loss and bereavement.
"The services listed in this guide will help patients deal with
many of the questions they have - from the practical to the complex."
Meg Chiswell, Head of Cancer Information and Support Services at
Cancer Council Victoria said:
"We have designed this guide as a useful way to find support that
suits your personal situation. No two peoples' experience is the same when it
comes to cancer and this services guide will allow people to pick out and
tailor what services they need;
whether it's health services and information, practical support or health and
wellbeing."
Cancer Council Victoria hopes this new guide will bring
reassurance to people facing the challenges of cancer by having all services
collated in one easy-to use booklet. Both metro and regional listings are
included, ensuring services in this guide cater for all Victorians.
While most
services and programs listed can be accessed without a referral, it is
important to speak with your treatment team about any concerns you have to ensure
you are receiving the most appropriate care.
The Cancer Services guide is available to
download and order on Cancer Council Victoria's website: www.cancervic.org.au/servicesguide
Call 13 11 20 to speak with an
experienced cancer nurse for further information and support or email askanurse@cancervic.gov.au.
To speak with a nurse using an
interpreter, call 13 14 50 and ask to speak to Cancer Council Victoria.