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Specialist nurses are helping to make "a big difference" for cancer patients at Hollywood Private Hospital, which is investing in extra support to meet rising demand.
Director of Clinical Services Karen Gullick said the Perth hospital's team of specialist cancer nurses expanded last year and there were plans to continue recruiting in 2022.
"Specialist nurses are valued by cancer patients because they become a trusted main point of contact," Ms Gullick said.
"Specialist cancer nurses facilitate regular and appropriate communication between various healthcare providers, sometimes across different settings.
"They also promote care that is provided in a coherent, logical and timely manner, with consideration for the patient's preferences."
Hollywood Private provides a range of specialist nurses to ensure continuity of care for cancer patients during their treatment journey.
Cancer Care Navigatorsguide patients and carers through this sometimes complex and challenging path, offeringinformation, education and emotional support for patients and family members during and aftertreatment.
McGrath Breast Care Nurses, meanwhile, provide important psychological, physical and emotional support to familiesexperiencing the disease – which is themost commonly diagnosed cancer in Western Australian women.
The Prostate Cancer Specialist Nursing Service also plays a vital role by providing reliable information about thediagnosis and treatment pathways and supportive care for men and their families.
There are now three prostate cancer nurses at Hollywood Private, whereSorrento resident John Williams said he had benefited from their support during his treatment at the hospital.
"Being able to talk to someone made a big difference," Mr Williams said.
"The prostate cancer nurse helped me manage how I was going to communicate my diagnosis to my family and kids."
Read more: Hollywood Private Hospital boasts new cancer centre
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