Download From Diagnosis: Taking the next step

For us, cancer is personal
From Diagnosis: Taking the next step
Contents
Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
About Icon Cancer Care. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
The next step, and beyond. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
What can I expect at my next visit? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
What should I bring to my treatment appointment? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Making subsequent appointments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
How are my appointments, treatment and medications covered and billed?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Specialist or consultation fee. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Treatment fees. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pharmaceutical fees. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
What to expect during treatment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
After-hours and emergency information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Patient resources. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Special patient services. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Clinical trials. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Apherisis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Stem cell collection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lymphoedema . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Your centre information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Contact information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Centre hours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Amenities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Public transport and parking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Café. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pharmacy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Paying your account. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Private health insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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Pre-Admission Clinic – information sessions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Support services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Protecting your privacy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Our service commitment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
1
Introduction
This booklet has been created to help you take the first step
from diagnosis to treatment.
This is the time when patients and their families can feel
the most overwhelmed. It’s likely you have many questions:
What now? What should I be asking my doctor? What are
the next steps? How can I begin to make sense of all of the
information available to me?
While a cancer diagnosis can be confronting for patients
and their families, we believe the right support can make
things easier. From our friendly and caring staff to our
comprehensive patient information, we aim to make all
aspects of diagnosis, care and treatment as supportive and
seamless as possible.
We welcome you and your family to Icon Cancer Care
Wesley, where we aim to offer you the highest level of care
and support.
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About Icon Cancer Care
We’re Australia’s largest private provider of cancer care,
managing more than 73,000 patient visits each year across
our day hospitals, with the support of more than
70 doctors.
We are dedicated specifically to cancer care. This single
focus means there are no competing priorities, ensuring all
of our capability, resources, processes and procedures are
dedicated to providing exceptional care to cancer patients
and their families.
We are proud to work with some of the best cancer care
clinicians in Australia, with many of our doctors recognised
internationally in their field.
From our doctors to our day hospital staff, we are truly
cancer care specialists.
For more information about us,
visit www.iconcancercare.com.au.
From our doctors to our
day hospital staff, we
are truly cancer care
specialists.
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The next step, and beyond
Understandably, many patients feel unable to take in
all of the details of their diagnosis when they first receive
the news. It’s possible, too, to forget the details and
feel as though you don’t have a full understanding of
your diagnosis.
While you should feel free to ask questions during any
of your visits to Icon Cancer Care, the next visit provides
an excellent opportunity to discuss any of your personal
research and gain a better understanding about any aspect
of your diagnosis, pathology reports and treatment.
What can I expect at my next visit?
Your next visit to Icon Cancer Care may be for further
consultation with your specialist to develop your treatment
plan, to attend our Pre-Admission Clinic information
session or for your first treatment. Whichever the purpose
of your visit, please go to the reception area where our
medical receptionists will help you. They will confirm your
personal details and make any health insurance and
billing arrangements.
A family member, carer or friend is welcome to accompany
you when you visit the centre.
What should I bring to my first treatment
appointment?
On the day of your first treatment, and all treatments,
please go to the reception area where our medical
receptionists will direct you. At your first treatment, you
should also bring any regular medications that you are
taking or your printed medication history that is available
from your local pharmacy or doctor.
Please feel free to bring a book, magazine and/or an iPad
to pass the time during your treatment. You may also find it
useful to bring extra clothing for warmth, such as a jacket,
cardigan or scarf, until you get a feel for how the treatment
will affect you.
Making subsequent appointments
Further appointments with your specialist or for
treatment can be made with our medical receptionists at
each visit, or you can phone Icon Cancer Care Wesley on
(07) 3737 4500.
The appointment times for your treatments are allocated
according to the required treatment length. If you are
unable to attend your appointment, please let your
specialist’s receptionist know as soon as possible so that we
can work with you to arrange another suitable time.
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How are my appointments, treatment and
medications covered and billed?
Specialist or consultation fee
In most instances, the specialist fee will be charged directly
to your health fund. Your health fund will forward the
payment directly to the centre and this will be credited to
your account.
While some doctors do not charge a gap fee, others may
charge more than the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS),
meaning you will be required to pay a gap fee depending
on your level of cover. Our medical receptionists will let
you know in advance if you have any out-of-pocket costs.
If your specialist doesn’t have arrangements with your
health fund, you will need to settle the account on the day
of service.
Treatment fee
There are no gap fees for privately insured patients
undergoing chemotherapy or haematological treatments
at our centres. At the time of your treatment, we will let you
know of any excess that may apply to your health
insurance cover.
Pharmaceutical fees
Generally, pharmaceutical drugs related to your treatment
are funded through your health fund. Pharmaceutical
drugs comprise both Pharmaceutical Benefit Scheme
(PBS) subsidised drugs and non-PBS subsidised drugs.
Please note that some non-PBS subsidised drugs may
not be covered by your health fund. In these instances,
our Clinic Manager or a Pharmacist will discuss payment
arrangements with you.
Medications not directly related to your treatment can also
be purchased through our pharmacy. These medications will
be invoiced directly to you by the pharmacy and cannot be
claimed for reimbursement by Medicare or your health fund.
Dressings and bandages provided upon discharge will
be invoiced separately by the day hospital – these items
cannot be claimed for reimbursement either by Medicare
or your health fund. Take home or discharge medications
are also not included in the day hospital treatment cost.
What to expect during treatment
One of our experienced registered nurses will be responsible
for your care during your treatment at our centre. They will
give you information about your treatment and are available
to discuss any concerns or questions you may have.
Our receptionists or nurses will let you know the
approximate time your treatment will take. Light
refreshments will be provided throughout the day.
After-hours and emergency information
When it’s time to start your treatment, an intravenous (IV)
drip will be inserted by one of our experienced nurses.
A blood test may also be taken at this time. You may need
to wait for blood results prior to your treatment to ensure
your blood counts are at a satisfactory level.
Several specialists have different after-hours arrangements
in place. The majority of specialists can be contacted on
07 3834 6922. Please ask the after-hours service provider
for your Specialist by name and they will advise how your
call will be managed.
Depending on your chemotherapy treatment, you may be
given anti-nausea medication either via your drip or orally
before receiving treatment.
The majority of specialists can be contacted during normal
centre hours on 07 3737 4500.
In the event of an emergency please call 000.
You may also receive drugs that make you drowsy during
your treatment. We suggest having a family member or
friend drive you home, as driving is not advisable.
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Patient resources
Our patient resources have been designed and written to
help patients and their families. However, they are by no
means conclusive. We encourage you to ask questions of your
doctor, nurses and pharmacists, who are there to support you.
Our nurses may give you brochures and/or information
sheets that are relevant to your diagnosis or treatment.
These, along with some useful website links, can also be
found at www.iconcancercare.com.au.
We hope you find this additional information helpful.
Special patient services
Icon Cancer Care offers a full range of treatments for people
diagnosed with cancer and haematological conditions.
We have extensive experience in caring for patients
requiring therapeutic apheresis or stem cell collections,
or for those with lymphoedema. We can also offer some
patients emerging treatment options through clinical trials.
Clinical trials
Through Icon Cancer Foundation, Icon Cancer Care aims to
give patients and clinicians access to new and emerging
advances in cancer treatment. Clinical trials not only lead
to significant advancements in cancer care, but also allow
patients to receive additional treatment options, beyond
standard care.
Icon Cancer Foundation is a registered charity made up
of specialist research nurses and trial co-ordinators. With
our participating doctors and through partnerships with
pharmaceutical companies and research organisations
– big and small – we manage and coordinate first-class
clinical research trials both nationally and internationally.
For more information about Icon Cancer Foundation’s
clinical trials, please speak with your specialist or visit
www.iconcancercare.com.au.
Apheresis
Icon Cancer Care has been offering apheresis services since
1997, including Therapeutic Plasma Exchange (TPE) and
Stem Cell Collection (SCC) in both day-only and inpatient
environments.
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During an apheresis procedure, a component of the blood
that contributes to a disease state, such as platelets or
plasma, is removed using a special cell separator or apheresis
machine. Our trained apheresis care coordinators, under the
supervision of our specialist medical practitioners, perform
all apheresis procedures and are focused on ensuring
optimum patient safety, comfort and treatment.
For more information about apheresis, please speak with
your specialist.
Stem cell collection
In some cancers, such as certain haematological disorders,
stem cells can be collected and stored in case patients
require a stem cell transplant later on. Icon Cancer Care
is experienced in caring for patients requiring stem cell
collection and works closely with hospitals and pathology
services to ensure patients are given seamless care.
Our qualified care coordinators manage and facilitate the
mobilisation, collection and storage of a patient’s stem cells,
while care is under the supervision of the patient’s specialist.
For more information on stem cell collection, please speak
with your specialist.
Lymphoedema
Icon Cancer Care provides a Lymphoedema Treatment
Clinic at Chermside. Specialised nurses and allied health
professionals treat and manage lymphoedema, a condition
where excess fluid causes swelling in the body.
Secondary lymphoedema can occur following surgery,
radiotherapy, trauma or other damage to the lymphatic
system following treatment for cancer.
The Lymphoedema Treatment Clinic teaches patients
about early intervention and how to self-manage and take
control of their lymphoedema. An interdisciplinary team of
health professionals, including medical and nursing staff,
physiotherapists and occupational therapists, are involved
in all programs.
For more information, speak with your doctor or call
Icon Cancer Care Chermside on (07) 3737 4500.
Your centre information
Contact information
Icon Cancer Care Wesley
Wesley Medical Centre
Level 1
40 Chasely Street
Auchenflower QLD 4066
Centre hours
Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 7:00am to 7:30pm.
Tuesday and Thursday from 7:00am to 8:30pm.
P 07 3737 4500
F 07 3737 4601
Amenities
Smoke-free environment
Public transport and parking
For your comfort the centre has a no smoking policy.
The centre is approximately 50 metres from the Auchenflower
railway station. The bus stop on Coronation Drive is within
walking distance. For public transport information, timetables
and maps visit www.translink.com.au.
Paying your account
Car parking is available within the grounds of The Wesley
Hospital (hourly rates apply).
Café
The Rose Café on the ground floor of the Wesley Medical
Centre offers lunch and snacks.
Pharmacy
Our pharmacy can dispense all medications relating to your
treatment. They can also dispense and deliver any other
medications to you while you are at our day hospital.
You can pay by cash, cheque, EFTPOS or any major credit
cards. Account enquiries can be made Monday to Friday,
8:00am to 5:30pm on 07 3737 4500.
Private health insurance
Icon Cancer Care has contracts with most major health
insurance funds. The centre will claim directly from your
health fund for your treatment. Your health fund will then
send payment directly to the centre to be credited to
your account.
Payment will be required on the day of treatment if you have
an insurance excess, co-payment, basic cover or no private
health insurance. Patient admissions will provide you with an
estimate and seek your consent to any financial arrangements.
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Pre-Admission Clinic – information sessions
The beginning of treatment can be an uneasy time for patients
and their families. However, receiving information about your
chemotherapy treatment, the possible side effects and the
lifestyle implications can be reassuring. We aim to provide
you easy access to information and support through our PreAdmission Clinics.
Icon Cancer Care’s Pre-Admission Clinic sessions have been
designed to complement the information you receive from
your doctor.
The Pre-Admission Clinic sessions are held weekly and are a
complimentary service extended to patients, family and carers.
• r educe possible anxiety about your chemotherapy
treatments
We aim to:
• improve your knowledge of chemotherapy treatments
and possible side effects
The Pre-Admission Clinic sessions are conducted in small
groups and facilitated by a nurse. During the preadmission
process you will have the opportunity to discuss with
them your concerns or questions. You should allocate
approximately 2 ½ hours for this session. Unfortunately, due
to space constraints, only one carer may accompany you to
the Pre-Admission Clinic.
• help you feel more in control and dispel any myths
If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact
our friendly staff.
• d
iscuss the potential side effects of chemotherapy
treatments and how to manage, minimise or prevent them
My Booking for the Pre-Admission Clinic:
• provide information on account procedures.
During the sessions we:
• e
xplore how chemotherapy was developed and how
it works
• discuss how chemotherapy is given and how often
• discuss the services available at Icon Cancer Care.
By the end of the session, we hope you will have a greater
understanding of chemotherapy treatment, how to manage
the potential side effects and be more familiar with
Icon Cancer Care Wesley’s facilities.
The Pre-Admission Clinic sessions are conducted
in small groups and facilitated by a nurse.
At the session, participants:
Date
• may bring along a family member, carer or friend
• h
ave the opportunity to ask questions in a
non-clinical environment
• gain further information
• c an share with others experiencing similar issues
or concerns.
Time
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For more information or to register for a session,
please phone (07) 3737 4500.
Support services for patients and their families
A number of services are available to you and your
family that may provide support and assistance during
your treatment.
Cancer Council Queensland
Icon Cancer Care runs regular pre-admission information
sessions to provide you and your family with information
regarding treatment. In addition, we provide a
comprehensive treatment program for patients with
lymphoedema at Icon Cancer Care Chermside. The program
focuses on teaching patients how to self-manage and take
control of their lymphoedema.
A telephone counselling service staffed by trained
professionals (nurses and psychologists) who have
knowledge about cancer and cancer care. They are there to
help you with information, support and referrals to services
throughout Queensland. The Cancer Council Helpline
operates from 8am to 8pm, Monday to Friday.
Helpline 13 11 20.
Icon Cancer Care also works with a number of community
groups that offer a range of support services.
Wig and Turban Service
The Leukaemia Foundation of Queensland
Taking Control
This general program is designed to help with diagnosis,
treatment and recovery for leukaemias, lymphomas,
myeloma and related blood disorders. This workshop
addresses the health and wellbeing of patients, families
and carers, and includes presentations from clinical staff,
dietitians, exercise doctors and more.
Getting Back into Life
Designed as a follow up to Taking Control, this program
addresses issues experienced by patients and their carers
once treatment has been completed.
Caring for the Carer
The Cancer Council Helpline
The Cancer Council also provides a wig and turban service
for people who have lost their hair as a result of
cancer treatment.
The Cancer Council Queensland can also help with financial
assistance, equipment loans, accommodation for people
who need to travel for treatment and transport.
Look Good… Feel Better
The program offers workshops to teach women and men
simple grooming techniques to assist with appearancerelated side effects of chemotherapy and radiation
treatment, such as hair loss and skin changes.
Look Good... Feel Better is sponsored by the Cosmetic,
Toiletry and Fragrance Association of Australia and
supported by the Queensland Cancer Fund.
This four-week program has been developed and
designed especially for carers. The program provides a
great opportunity for carers to meet each other, share and
exchange ideas, look at coping strategies and enjoy a
little pampering.
Specially trained, volunteer beauty consultants run the
workshops. These volunteers use a 12-step program
demonstrating how make-up, wigs and other accessories
can help restore self-image and confidence.
Living with Grief
Workshops are held throughout Brisbane. Our staff can
assist you with the dates, or you may contact Cancer
Council Qld on 1800 650 960.
Providing family grief counseling, facilitated by a trained
psychotherapist and grief counsellor, Living with Grief is an
interactive six-week program designed to assist individuals
who have suffered the loss of a loved one.
Breast cancer support groups
Patient Education Evenings
Wesley Hospital Kim Walters Choices Program
A range of disease-specific programs is available for people
living with acute leukaemia, chronic leukaemia, lymphoma,
myeloma, myelodysplasic syndrome and amyloidosis.
These programs provide tailored information and support
and may include clinician guest speakers to provide
updates on diagnosis and treatments.
The Wesley Hospital Kim Walters Choices Program
(Choices) is a free community service, regardless of where
treatment has been undertaken, offering support for those
diagnosed with breast cancer and women diagnosed with
gynaecological cancers, and their families. You are welcome
to drop in at any time.
Survivors’ Program
Specifically designed by the Leukaemia Foundation for
patients following treatment.
Accommodation
For patients and their family who live outside of the
Brisbane area. All programs at the Leukaemia Foundation
are provided free of charge.
Group for Women with Advanced Recurrent
Breast Cancer
Led by a psychiatrist and a social worker, this group
provides access to psychological support, particularly
group support, to women who have special needs and
challenges to face.
Women are encouraged to attend in person, or
teleconference into if living in rural or remote communities,
a one-hour weekly meeting.
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Chicks in Pink
Seize the Day Study
Chicks in Pink was originally formed by the daughters,
granddaughters, sisters, nieces, friends and supporters of
women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer, to be
a fundraising support to the Mater Breast Care Unit.
These are financial grants offered to Queenslanders aged
between 16 and 21 who have been diagnosed with cancer
or have had an immediate family member diagnosed
with cancer. Applicants must be planning to undertake or
continue post-secondary school education at university,
TAFE, tertiary college or vocational training centre.
For more information contact the Cancer Council Qld.
Their mission is to raise funds, which allow them to have
positive, significant and real impact on people who are
affected by breast cancer at The Mater.
Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia
The Foundation is a national organisation acting to reduce
the impact of prostate cancer on Australian men, their
families and the community.
It aims to represent the interests of all men diagnosed with
prostate cancer through a nation-wide network of affiliated
support groups, with a special emphasis on raising money
for research into the disease. The Foundation operates
support groups throughout Queensland.
Support groups for young people with cancer
Carers Queensland
Carers provide unpaid care and support to family members
and friends who have a disability, mental illness, chronic
condition, terminal illness or who are frail.
The purpose of Carers Queensland is to improve the lives of
carers by providing important services such as counselling,
advice, advocacy, education and training.
Australian Lung Foundation
www.lungfoundation.com.au or 1800 654 301
Red Kite
Lymphoedema Association Queensland
An Australian charity that supports children, young people
and their families through cancer by providing emotional
support, financial assistance and educational services.
www.lymphqld.org or 07 3833 4376
Canteen
www.bcna.org.au or 1800 500 258
‘Supporting, Developing and Empowering Young People
Living with Cancer’ Canteen provides a high-quality peer
support network for young people living with cancer, and
their brothers and sisters, who share experiences, have fun,
offer resources and promote understanding, well being
and leadership. Activities include camps, fun day outs and
group support.
National Breast and Ovarian Cancer Network
Camp Quality
Camp Quality is a non-profit organisation that provides
camps and a year-round support program for children
and their families. The program provides children with the
opportunity to try new and old activities, make new friends
and gain memories that will last forever.
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Other useful services
Breast Cancer Network
National Breast and Ovarian Cancer Centre (NBOCC) is
Australia’s national authority and information source on
breast and ovarian cancer.
Funded by the Australian Government, NBOCC works in
partnership with health professionals, cancer organisations,
researchers, governments and those diagnosed to improve
outcomes in breast and ovarian cancer.
Useful websites
Cancer Organisations
Cancer Council Australia
www.cancer.org.au
Cancer Institute NSW
www.cancerinstitute.org.au
Cancer Council QLD
www.cancerqld.org.au
Cancer Council SA
www.cancersa.org.au
Cancer Council Victoria
www.cancervic.org.au
Leukaemia Foundation
www.leukaemia.org.au
Lymphoma Australia
www.lymphoma.org.au
Health Funds
Private health insurance
www.privatehealth.gov.au
AHM – Australian Health Management
www.ahm.com.au/
Australian Health Service Alliance
www.ahsa.com.au/web
Australian Unity Health Limited
www.australianunity.com.au
BUPA (MBF)
www.bupa.com.au
Commonwealth Bank Health Society
www.cbhs.com.au
CUA Health Fund
www.cua.com.au/personal-banking/health-insurance
Defence Health
www.defencehealth.com.au
Federation Health
www.latrobehealth.com.au/FederationHealthProducts
Health Care Insurance Ltd
www.hciltd.com.au
Health Partners
www.healthpartners.com.au
Lysaght Peoplecare
www.peoplecare.com.au
Manchester Unity Australia Ltd
www.manchesterunity.com.au/site
Medibank Private
www.medibank.com.au
Navy Health
www.navyhealth.com.au
Phoenix Health Fund
www.phoenixhealthfund.com.au
SGIC Health
www.nrma.com.au/sa
Teachers Federation Health
www.teachershealth.com.au
Teachers Union Health
www.tuh.com.au
Transport Friendly Society
www.transporthealth.com.au
Government
Centrelink
www.centrelink.gov.au
Department of Health and Ageing
www.health.gov.au
Department of Veterans’ Affairs
www.dva.gov.au
Private Health Insurance Ombudsman
www.privatehealth.gov.au
Private Health Insurance Administration Council
www.phiac.gov.au
Other
Australian Council on Healthcare Standards (ACHS)
www.achs.org.au
Australian Healthcare and Hospitals Association
www.ahha.asn.au
Australian Private Hospitals Association
www.apha.org.au
Macmillan Cancer Support
www.macmillan.org.uk
The Medical Journal of Australia
www.mja.com.au/
OncoLink
www.oncolink.org
Quackwatch
www.quackwatch.com
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Protecting your privacy
Icon Cancer Care respects and upholds your rights to
privacy protection under the National Privacy Principles
contained in the Privacy Act 1988. The following
information describes how Icon Cancer Care manages any
personal information we have about you.
What happens if I do not agree to provide
personal information?
What personal information does Icon Cancer
Care collect?
What does Icon Cancer Care use my personal
information for?
We may hold the following information about you:
We use your personal information to:
• name, address, telephone numbers
• date of birth
• a ssist your treating doctors, nurses and other allied
health professionals (e.g. pharmacists) in providing
medical treatment and care to you
• email address
• access pharmaceutical drugs and specific treatments
• occupation
• process private health fund claims
• health/medical information
• health fund information
• p
rovide information to medical practitioners, registered
nurses and other allied health professionals (e.g.
pharmacists, physiotherapists) who may be involved in
your ongoing treatment and care
• M
edicare/Department of Veterans’ Affairs/Pension/
Healthcare card numbers
• b
enchmark and provide clinical indicator reports in a
de-identified form
• t ransaction details associated with services that have
been provided to you
• information provided by other healthcare providers (e.g.
pathology and X-ray reports)
• p
rovide data in a de-identified form to government
agencies in compliance with numerous legislative
requirements, to the Private Hospital Data Bureau and to
the Cancer Registry
• a ny additional information provided by you to Icon
Cancer Care (e.g. surveys).
• e
valuate and improve the services we provide to all
patients (e.g. audits and research activities)
• next of kin and marital status
• general practitioner and referring doctor information
Each time you attend Icon Cancer Care, information about
you is updated. We aim to keep your information accurate
and up-to-date to ensure the best possible care and service
can be provided.
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Failing to provide personal information may limit our ability
to provide optimal health care and services and/or to
submit a claim to a health fund, Medicare or other payors.
• a ssess eligibility for research studies conducted by
Icon Cancer Foundation.
What about access to my personal information?
We will not disclose personal information about you,
except on a confidential basis to agents that we use in the
ordinary operation of our business, if required by law or in
circumstances where you have given permission.
Where Icon Cancer Care holds information that you are
entitled to access, and to ensure that your information is
appropriately maintained, Icon Cancer Care prefers the
collection of information by you in person.
Other hospitals or new treating doctors that you visit may
contact Icon Cancer Care to obtain information about you
so that they can provide the best possible care. We would
ask them to provide written authorisation from you before
releasing information to them. However, in an emergency
situation we will release information about you to facilitate
your care.
If you identify information that is incorrect or incomplete,
you may request amendment to it. Icon Cancer Care will
consider if the information requires amendment.
Your information will be amended accordingly and the
changes confirmed with you if Icon Cancer Care agrees that
it should be amended. If Icon Cancer Care does not agree
that there are grounds for amendment, then Icon Cancer
Care will add a note to your information stating that you
disagree with it.
Apart from what is described above, no personal identifiable
information will be released without your prior consent.
Who do I contact if I have any questions?
We store personal information:
Any questions about this policy, or any complaint regarding
treatment of your privacy by Icon Cancer Care, should be
made to our Clinic Manager.
• contained in electronic records in a secure environment
Miscellaneous
• c ontained in paper-based and other hard-copy
documents in secure dedicated storage facilities
In this policy, “personal information” and “health
information” have the same meaning under the Privacy Act.
• a fter the statutory retention period (generally 10 years
after last attendance) Icon Cancer Care will destroy
paper-based personal information collected.
What should I do now?
How do you store my information?
Do I have access to my personal information?
The Freedom from Information Act 1982 sets out your right
to access your medical record and personal information
held by Icon Cancer Care. If you would like access to
information collected about your care, please ask a staff
member or contact the Clinic Manager. The request
process will require you to complete an application form
Request to Access a Patient Record and a small fee may
apply. Once you have completed the form forward it to our
Clinic Manager.
You will be asked to sign an acknowledgement that you
have received this information. If you have any questions,
please ask our helpful staff who may refer you to the Clinic
Manager (Privacy Officer).
If you believe that personal information we hold about
you is incorrect, incomplete or inaccurate, then you may
request amendment to it.
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Our service commitment
Your comfort and satisfaction is important to us and, as
such, we are committed to ensuring every aspect of our
service is of the highest calibre.
Icon Cancer Care strongly supports the Australian Charter
of Health Care Rights, which describes the rights of
everyone using the Australian health system, and the
Australian Government’s Private Patients’ Hospital Charter,
which outlines the rights and responsibilities of a private
patient in a public or private hospital.
In addition to these rights, which are essential to make
sure that health care is safe and of high quality, we strongly
encourage you to speak with our friendly staff should any
aspect of our service not meet your expectations. Complete
details of our contact information are included on the back
of this booklet.
For more information, visit:
www.safetyandquality.gov.au
www.health.gov.au
Speak with our friendly
staff should any aspect of
our service not meet your
expectations.
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Your notes
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All correspondence to:
PO Box 1879
MILTON QLD 4064
P +61 7 3737 4500
F +61 7 3737 4501
iconcancercare.com.au
Icon Cancer Care locations
Adelaide
First Floor, Tennyson Centre
520 South Road
Kurralta Park SA 5037
P 08 8292 2333 | F 08 8292 2287
South Brisbane
Level 5, Mater Medical Centre
293 Vulture Street
South Brisbane QLD 4101
P 07 3737 4500 | F 07 3737 4701
Townsville
9–13 Bayswater Road
Hyde Park QLD 4812
P 07 4795 7100 | F 07 4795 7101
Chermside
Level 1, Chermside Medical Complex
956 Gympie Road, Chermside QLD 4032
P 07 3737 4500 | F 07 3737 4801
Southport
Level 9, Premion Place, 39 White Street
(Corner Queen and High Streets)
Southport QLD 4215
P 07 5657 6400 | F 07 5657 6401
Wesley
Level 1, Wesley Medical Centre
40 Chasely Street
Auchenflower QLD 4066
P 07 3737 4500 | F 07 3737 4601
This information was current at the time it was published and is intended as a guide only. It is not intended to replace information
provided by your doctor or nurses. Each patient is an individual and responses may vary. If you have any questions, please talk to
your doctor or clinic nurse.
For us, cancer is personal
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