Planned ASMS senior doctors' strike — Thursday 1 May, 24 hours
Patient safety is our priority. Our hospitals and emergency departments will remain open. Continue to attend all appointments on the day of the strike unless we have contacted you to reschedule.
Oncology is the care and treatment of people who have been diagnosed with cancer. Medical oncology involves treatment with medications such as chemotherapy. Radiation oncology treats people using radiotherapy.
To contact the South Canterbury Oncology Service at Timaru Hospital:
The Oncology Medical Unit is at:
Timaru Hospital Campus
Queen Street
Parkside
Timaru 7910
The South Canterbury Oncology Service is staffed by a medical oncology specialist, oncology clinical nurse specialists, a cancer nurse coordinator and a social worker.
Treatment is provided under the direction of oncology or haematology specialists — these may be our 'home' oncologist or specialists based in Christchurch or Dunedin. Local support with your care is provided by Timaru Hospital consultants, general practices and a range of hospital and community services.
If you are having chemotherapy under the care of an oncologist you will have regular reviews in the clinic. Input is from a combination of our local medical oncologist, visiting medical oncologists in the outpatient department or via video conference facilities in a telehealth clinic.
Chemotherapy and related treatment infusions are given by the chemotherapy nurses at Day Patient Services (DPS) in the Oncology Medical Unit.
New referrals for medical and radiation oncology treatment are made by the hospital consultant doctors.
Referrals to the cancer nurse coordinator and Cancer and Psychological Support Service social worker can be made by any healthcare provider — see Health Pathways for guidance.