Patients are seen by different specialists in different clinics dependent on the type of cancer their General Practitioner (GP) suspects. Most types of cancers can be treated here in the Illawarra Shoalhaven, however there may be a need for a referral to Sydney for certain elements of your care.
For Patients
Why do I need a referral to see a cancer specialist?
A referral from your referring specialist or general practitioner is required to so that elegible treatment costs are covered by Medicare.
Can I choose the specialist?
The type of cancer suspected will determine who you will be referred to.
How long is the referral valid?
Specialist referral is valid for 3 months from your first visit, GP referral can be either 12 months or indefinite (as specified by the GP).
How long does it usually take for a consultation?
This can vary across departments, and will vary according to the problem and urgency
How long does it usually take for a consultation?
This can vary across departments, and will vary according to the problem and urgency.
For Referrers
Directory
If cancer is suspected, a referral is required. The Canrefer directory assists general practitioners and other health professionals to find cancer services by cancer type and location within NSW.
Referrals should be faxed to the relevant site:
- Illawarra Cancer Care Centre F: 02 4226 5397
- Shoalhaven Cancer Care Centre F: 02 4428 7411
- Milton-Ulladulla Community Cancer Services Centre F: 02 4454 9166
- Oncology & Haematology Ward, Wollongong Hospital (C7) F: 02 4353 4704
- Haematology, Wollongong Hospital F: 02 4253 4771
- Nursing and Allied Services
- Breast Care Nurse - Illawarra Cancer Care Centre F: 02 4222 5039
- Breast Care Nurse - Shoalhaven Cancer Care Centre F: 02 4428 7530
- Hereditory Cancer Clinic F: 02 4222 5040
- ISLHD Cancer Clinical Trials Unit F: 02 4222 5085
- Prostate Clinical Nurse Consultant F: 02 4222 5085
ISLHD Breast Cancer Multidisciplinary Team
The Breast Cancer Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) is an expert team which oversees the diagnosis, treatment and evidence based management of breast cancers within ISLHD. Members of the ISLHD Breast Cancer MDT include Breast Surgeons, Medical Oncologists, Radiation Oncologists, Radiologists, Pathologists, Nuclear Medicine Specialists, Nurse Specialists and Allied Health Professionals.
ISLHD Colorectal Cancer Multidisciplinary Team
The Colorectal Cancer MDT is an expert team which oversees the diagnosis, treatment and evidence based management of colorectal cancers within ISLHD. Members of the ISLHD Colorectal Cancer MDT include specialist Colorectal Surgeons, Upper GI Surgeons, Medical Oncologists, Radiation Oncologists, Radiologists, Pathologists, Nuclear Medicine Specialists, Nurse Specialists and Allied Health Professionals.
ISLHD Colorectal Cancer MDT Referral Criteria
ISLHD Colorectal Cancer MDT REferral Form (PDF-fillable)
ISLHD Lower Gastro-Intestinal Tract Cancers Model of Care