Comprehensive colorectal cancer services provide holistic care

A new comprehensive colorectal cancer service is now available to both public and private patients at St John of God Midland Public and Private Hospitals. The team of highly trained specialists work collaboratively to provide a quality coordinated service.

6 Feb 2023

All colorectal cancer patients, regardless of insurance, can now access these services in Midland without the need to travel further:

Rapid access to colonoscopy
Rapid radiology workup, including CT, MRI and PET scans
Patient-centred management and treatment planning through regular multi-disciplinary team meetings involving all specialists including medical and radiation oncology, radiology, pathology, colorectal surgeons and specialist nursing
Highly trained specialist colorectal surgeons with up-to-date minimally invasive surgery and endoscopy
Colorectal surgical training unit, involved in clinical trials and research so that patients can benefit from the latest research, treatments, technology and techniques
Specialist anaesthetic, ICU and geriatric back up for those with complex medical issues
Specialist wound, stoma and continence nursing expertise and clinics
Direct access to colorectal cancer clinical nurse specialists ensuring all aspects of patient care are optimally co-ordinated and patients and their families are fully supported through their treatment and follow-up
Survivorship clinics and long term surveillance carried out by specialists for rapid access to services if required during surveillance.

Currently the incidence of colorectal cancer is 1 in 12. A concerning trend is the increased incidence in younger patients. Most are unaware that the under-50 age group represents the fastest increasing incidence of colorectal cancer in Australia.

Patients can now receive holistic treatment including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery or often a combination, in one location without the need for further travel. This is not only more convenient for patients, but ensures better continuity and quality of care.

Referral pathway

Routine admissions can be referred via the CRS. Referrals can be also emailed to [email protected] or faxed to 08 9462 4085, for more urgent or specific specialists’ attention.

Private referrals can be referred directly to the colorectal specialists Head of Department Dr Mary Theophilus and Dr Joel Stein.