According to the federal government, colorectal cancers make up around 9.2% of all new cancers diagnosed in Australia in 2024. Those living in regional, rural or remote areas have a poorer chance of survival. They often travel long distances to get the treatment and support they need.
The St John of God Bunbury Hospital in the southwest of Western Australia is committed to improving regional care. It provides cancer services to both public and private regional patients.
A new general surgeon who specialises in colorectal surgery has significantly increased the number of procedures able to be conducted by the hospital. As a result, the hospital is setting up a comprehensive colorectal service with improved diagnostic and treatment options.
In addition to diagnostic and lifesaving treatment in the new service, the hospital identified the need to access to a multidisciplinary team, psychological screening and coordinated health care referrals to achieve the best outcomes. Without dedicated support and resourcing by a specialist nurse, these services were not available.
Community Bank Collie and Districts co-funded the salary of a new specialist clinical colorectal cancer nurse at the hospital for 12-months.
The support has improved the financial and emotional burden of patients who would otherwise be travelling to Perth for treatment. It is just one of many community investments that the Community Bank has made this year.
“Previously, colorectal cancer care sufferers in the Southwest of Western Australia often had to travel hours for care,” Community Bank Collie and Districts Chair Sasacha Shepherd said.
“Specialist Colorectal Cancer Nurse, Alyssa, has made vital support more available to these patients whilst ensuring comprehensive cancer care is much closer to home.”
The grant funding has helped improve patient quality of life is improved and they are better supported every step of their journey.
Apply for community investment funding with Community Bank Collie and Districts.
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