Teleoncology service to start at Kingaroy Hospital

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Patients will soon be able to receive chemotherapy at the Kingaroy Hospital.

Kingaroy is the latest site in the Darling Downs Health region to benefit from a new teleoncology service based at the Toowoomba Hospital.

The service involves a specialised oncology nurse in Toowoomba who provides clinical support to a nurse in the rural facility via a live video stream. The nurse on the ground then safely administers and monitors the delivery of the chemotherapy to the patient.

“Patient safety is paramount when administering chemotherapy to patients,” Nurse Unit Manager at the Kingaroy Hospital, Trudy Bell said.

“This new service at the Kingaroy Hospital will ensure we have the right clinical skills and the required safety nets in place to support our patients and provide excellent care.”

The service will initially cater to patients who meet certain eligibility criteria. It is hoped however the service will grow and help more patients stay closer to home to receive treatment.

“Travelling to receive medical treatment can take quite a significant toll on patients,” Trudy said.

“To provide a service that removes the need for travel is a wonderful asset to the Kingaroy and South Burnett community.”  

Kingaroy Hospital Director of Nursing Gaye Binns said a team of nurses was currently undertaking specialised training in the administration of chemotherapy.

“It’s not only great news for our patients and the community, it is also a great opportunity for our staff to learn new skills in their hometown,”

Kingaroy Hospital Director of Nursing Gaye Binns

“We have a great hospital and a wonderful day therapy unit in which to provide this service.

“We are all set up and look forward to welcoming our oncology patients soon.”

It is hoped the first patients will receive treatment next month.

Darling Downs Health currently provides teleoncology services to patients located in Dalby, Warwick, Charleville, St George and Roma.