Innovative TeleChemotherapy service recognised for excellence in rural health

WA Country Health Service’s (WACHS) TeleChemotherapy Service has received its third major award nomination this year, named as a finalist in the WA Rural Health Excellence Awards.

The innovative TeleChemotherapy model allows cancer patients receiving a low-risk treatment to access care close to home and seamlessly connect with three major Perth hospitals for specialist appointments when necessary.

This ensures access to high-level care and improved coordination for patients who would otherwise need to travel.

In just five years, the service has facilitated over 20,000 outpatient appointments and supported almost 3,000 chemotherapy inpatient treatments across three regional sites.

Importantly, this has significantly reduced the need for more than 380 country cancer patients to spend extended time away from home during their treatment – saving more than five million kilometres of travel.

The success of the TeleChemotherapy service is made possible by strong partnerships with local Aboriginal Health Services, General Practitioners, the WA Cancer Network, and the Cancer Council WA.

Program Manager Cancer Services Jess McNeill praised the WA Country Health Service team for their work.

“Since its inception, the service has proven our commitment to equitable access to health care,” Ms McNeill said.

“The delivery of this specialised service locally not only allows for close to home care, it also strengthens community connections.

 “Well done to the team on their third nomination, and good luck.”

The awards will be announced at a ceremony Saturday 16 March 2024.