Children's cancer services

Townsville University Hospital’s paediatric oncology unit operates as a satellite unit of Queensland Children’s Hospital (QCH) under a shared-care model. Wherever possible, low-risk treatment and supportive care is delivered to North Queensland children at Townsville University Hospital, keeping them closer to home, school, friends and support networks. This service is coordinated by a Queensland Children’s Hospital oncology services consultant in collaboration with the paediatric specialist and the regional case manager.

The unit contains three treatment spaces and an isolation room for infection control. The room also has an outdoor play area, an indoor playroom and a teenage retreat.

More complex childhood cancers are treated at the Queensland Children’s Hospital in Brisbane.

Our aim is to:

• To coordinate clinical care of haematology/oncology patients within specified regional area
• To facilitate the delivery of chemotherapy and supportive care
• Act as resource for other staff in the area
• Liaise with QCH staff about patient treatment plans
• Link with network team members for support and updates
• Represent the paediatric oncology service for their hospital/region.

Queensland Youth Cancer Services (QYCS)

The Queensland Youth Cancer Services (QYCS) works in partnership with the cancer specialists at Townsville University Hospital to ensure all aspects your child’s health and well-being are considered during treatment and beyond.

QYCS provide young patients 15 -25 years of age with:

• Specialist care by an expert team of medical, nursing and allied health professionals with experience in treating cancer in young people
• Treatment that is planned and managed by a multidisciplinary team
• A designated cancer care coordinator– a nursing or allied health consultant who will be their personal guide through the complexities of treatment at this age
• Psychosocial care to meet the unique needs of young people, including help coping with cancer and side effects, and help returning to your family, community, school and/or work after treatment ends
• Access to fertility preservation information and options
• Improved access to new clinical trials and research
• Respect – treatment and support that recognises and values individual diversity
• Referrals to community agencies for ongoing support outside of hospital

For further information and referral forms, go to:
www.childrens.health.qld.gov.au/qycs

Townsville University Hospital
100 Angus Smith Drive
Douglas QLD 4814

Ph: +61 7 4433 1111