NSW Nationals Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan says cancer patients living in the Kempsey and Nambucca areas will be able to access radiation therapy services from 2023/24.
Mr Conaghan said the NSW Nationals in the federal government were increasing access to radiation therapy services for thousands of cancer patients living in rural and regional areas, and the new services would improve health outcomes.
“About one-third of people with cancer in Australia live outside our major cities and having better access to treatment will save lives,” Mr Conaghan said.
“This new investment of up to $5 million means cancer patients in Cowper can access treatment close to home and without incurring out of pocket expenses.
“The NSW Nationals in the federal government continue to invest in and build capacity in Australia’s health system to deliver quality outcomes for all Australians no matter where they live.”
Mr Conaghan said local cancer patients would be able to access all their cancer treatment services in one place.
“I congratulate the Mid North Coast Local Health District (LHD) on being the successful applicant to provide radiation treatment to the residents of the Mid-North Coast,” Mr Conaghan said.
“The LHD is perfectly placed to provide integrated health services, including radiation services, in the Kempsey and Nambucca regions.
“A Radiation Treatment Centre covering the Macleay and Nambucca valleys improves regional patient access to radiation services currently available in Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie.”
Mr Conaghan said the NSW Nationals in the federal government had provided $45.5 million over five years to invest in the expansion of cancer treatment capacity throughout regional Australia by enhancing existing and building new health infrastructure.
Funding for this initiative comes from the government’s Health Infrastructure Program, which is building, upgrading and expanding vital health infrastructure to ensure Australia’s health system is equipped to meet current and future health needs.
Making sure all Australians have the health services and latest treatments where and when they need them remains a NSW Nationals priority.
