Support, coordination and information

When you are diagnosed with cancer you can have many people involved in your care. You may receive this care in many different settings. Some patients can feel lost in the system and this can make them worry.

What are Cancer Specialist Nurses?

Cancer Specialist Nurses (CSNs) are highly trained nurses with a strong background in oncology or haematology and expertise in the cancer they specialise in.

CSNs work closely with doctors and can come to clinic appointments with you. They can support you throughout your cancer treatment.

Cancer Specialist Nurses can give you information about:

• when you should have scans and bloods
• the cycles of treatment
• what happens if your disease progresses
• stopping treatment.

Our team treats a wide range of cancers including:

• Adolescents and young adult cancers
• Brain
• Breast
• Gynaecological
• Gastrointestinal
• Head & Neck
• Lymphoma
• Lung & Mesothelioma
• Melanoma
• Prostate
• Sarcoma
• Urological and
• Haematological (blood) cancers.

How do I see a Cancer Specialist Nurse?

To see a Cancer Specialist Nurse, you do not need a referral. People who can refer you include:

• you, your family member, or carer
• your doctor or another health professional caring for you.

Referrals are made by email or phone.

What can a Cancer Specialist Nurse help with?

CSNs can help coordinate your treatment through different stages like surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and other cancer treatments. We can help you to understand and manage:

• your diagnosis
• your treatment goals
• any side affects you have from treatment
• your symptoms. We do this by:
• giving you, your family and your carer information and education about your disease and treatment
• assessing you and helping you manage your symptoms
• giving practical advice and emotional support
• referring you to other care providers if needed (like counselling, nutrition, or exercise physiology).

To use this service, you must:

• be 15 years or older
• have a cancer diagnosis
• live in the ACT or surrounding area
• be a patient of Canberra Health Services.

Where are the Cancer Specialist Nurses located?

Location: Canberra Region Cancer Centre, Building 19, The Canberra Hospital, Garran, ACT 2905
Fax: (02) 5124 2887

The Cancer Specialist Nurses work with your doctors, other nurses, and anyone else involved in your care to give you the best care that is right for you.

Email: CSN@act.gov.au
Phone: (02) 5124 8444

Please note: If you have not had a response from your call or email to the CSN within 5 working days, please email: CSN@act.gov.au

Where else can I get help?

For appointments within the Canberra Region Cancer Centre:

Contact Cancer Access (02) 5124 8444

For repeat scripts or usual medicines:

Contact your GP

For a new symptom or side-effect:

Contact our Cancer Rapid Assessment Unit (02) 5124 4401

For emergencies, call 000 or go to your nearest hospital Emergency Department

Who is my Cancer Specialist Nurse?

Name: ..........................................................................................

Email: ..........................................................................................

Availability: ..................................................................................

Phone number: ............................................................................