Sunshine Coast’s First Cancer Rehabilitation Program

Sunshine Coast’s First Cancer Rehabilitation Program

28 July 2016

Eden Rehabilitation Hospital has recently launched both inpatient and day therapy programs to assist patients with their recovery throughout and after their oncology treatment.

Rehabilitation consultant Dr Phoebe Slape said rehabilitative programs provide patients with a safe environment to meet their healthcare goals.

“We know cancer rehabilitation has proven to have a positive impact on patients’ health and their physical functioning," she said.

Exercise Physiologist, Sarah McAllister supports this and said rehabilitation and exercise prescription reduce symptoms and side effects of cancer treatment such as nausea, fatigue and pain.

“The program focuses on a tailored cancer education program and complete access to multidisciplinary care throughout the course of treatment,” she said.

It is predicted by 2021 the incidence of cancer on the Sunshine Coast will have increased by 32% since 2012, with the most common cancers including prostate, melanoma, breast and lung.

Eden Rehabilitation Hospital’s General Manager, Warren Street said our cancer rehabilitation program is the first of its kind on the Sunshine Coast and provides the community with a comprehensive service aimed to build independence, confidence and improve quality of life.

“The service will provide patients with the skills to reach their healthcare goals while under the care of experienced rehabilitation experts,” he said.

“Our multidisciplinary healthcare team have designed the program to provide both treatment and education to patients in the one location.

“The team is led by our experienced rehabilitation consultant and is supported by an occupational therapist, accredited exercise physiologist, dietitian, psychologist and a cancer care nurse.”

Oncology treatments can include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and hormone therapy which can often lead to loss of function, infections, respiratory concerns and psychological difficulties.

Rehabilitation medicine helps cancer patients achieve an optimal level of performance during and after their treatment to maximise their health and also supports their family through this period of change.