One year of radiation oncology care in Albany

WA Country Health Service’s radiation oncology hub in Albany has provided over 4000 instances of potentially lifesaving radiation treatment since it opened 12 months ago.

Operated by GenesisCare, the modern facility treats patients with radiation therapy, which is a technique that uses focused, high-energy particles to target cancer cells and minimise the impact on surrounding tissue.

It has helped patients like Murray Arnold avoid the 830-kilometre round trip to Perth or 670-kilometre round trip to Bunbury for treatment.

“Cancer is already stressful, and the fact that so much of this stress was eliminated by having the facility in Albany was of great value to me,” Murray said.

“By remaining at home, I was able to continue my normal social and family activities and could ride twice weekly with our cycling group. It meant that there was no break in my normal routine, and no costs were incurred by me for travel and accommodation.”

Murray also praised the local staff and said they made his journey as comfortable as possible.

“From start to finish, all of the staff including receptionists, radiologists, nurses and my specialist were - on all occasions - very friendly, as well as professional,” he said.

“They made my six-week treatment period a far less traumatic experience than I had ever thought possible.

“I was treated with respect and felt valued as an individual, rather than just another patient.”

WA Country Health Service Executive Director Great Southern Evelyn Quinn said the State Government invested $13.1 million to establish the facility.

“We know how crucial care close to home is for country patients, and it’s heartening to hear feedback from patients like Murray,” Ms Quinn said.

“We’re proud to continue delivering care alongside GenesisCare to provide treatment for a number of different cancers, as well as palliative treatments for symptom control to people locally.”