Contact us
- Suite 304, Level 3
- 2 Technology Place
- Macquarie University NSW 2109
- T: +61 (2) 9812 3614
- E: oncology@mqhealth.org.au
Learn more about the specialists involved in our clinic
Meet our teamIntegrated healthcare produces better outcomes for patients
Find out whyDue to COVID-19 Telehealth is available, where appropriate
More about TelehealthYour whole life stops after a diagnosis of cancer. It is frightening, and navigating the medical maze after diagnosis is not always easy.
Our dedicated cancer service brings together teams of committed health professionals and researchers to provide cutting edge treatment options for cancer patients.
Our cancer program consists of:
Your clinical care will include rapid diagnosis and discussion by a multidisciplinary team (MDT) to develop a recommended, individualised, best-practice treatment and supportive care plan.
We aim to deliver high quality individualised patient care to achieve our vision of translating research into improved treatment and outcomes for patients with cancer.
All of our clinicians and research scientists work closely in our purpose-built medical consulting, research and teaching facility.
Whether you are a patient or a doctor do not hesitate to get in touch with us to discuss our cancer program.
At MQ Health we offer cancer services across diverse medical specialist areas.
The top five cancers we treat are:
Cancer treatment often includes just one form of treatment, however, some patients may need a combination of treatment types. Treatments currently offered at MQ Health include:
Chemotherapy is the use of drugs to kills cancer cells and may be given via different routes. It targets rapidly dividing cells and can work throughout the whole body. Chemotherapy may be used before or after surgery or radiotherapy or concurrently with radiotherapy.
At MQ Health, chemotherapy is given in our Oncology and Infusions Centre. This is a modern centre that is open from 8am-4:30pm Monday to Friday. We specialise mainly in cancer treatments but also treat a variety of other conditions including Inflammatory Bowel Diseases and neurological conditions. Patients are treated in comfortable recliner chairs and have access to a kitchenette stocked with food and drinks. Patients are supported through treatment by our team of specialised chemotherapy nurses. The centre also uses scalp cooling technology to help with retaining hair during chemotherapy. Not all patients are offered this option so you should discuss this with your oncologist prior to starting treatment.
Chemotherapy may be delivered directly into an affected organ and is given in our angiography or operating suite.
Further information on chemotherapy can be found here
Immunotherapy works by either boosting the immune system to work against the cancer or by removing barriers to the immune system attacking the cancer. It is a more targeted therapy and has different side effects to traditional chemotherapy. Sometimes it is used in combination with chemotherapy.
Immunotherapy is also given in our Oncology and Infusions Centre.
Further information on immunotherapy can be found here
Radiotherapy uses high energy x-rays to damage and kill rapidly dividing cancer cells and can reduce the cancer size, relieve pain and other symptoms of cancer. Radiotherapy is often given once a day Monday to Friday over a number of weeks. This is to achieve the best result with least amount of side effect. Radiotherapy is a very localized treatment and there will only be side effects in the area treated. People who are working usually can continue to work and are NOT radioactive whist having treatment.
At MQ Health, radiotherapy is provided by GenesisCare.
GenesisCare have been providing high quality radiation oncology services at Macquarie University Hospital for 10 years. Beginning in 2010, GenesisCare has introduced a number of cutting edge techniques to the service. Starting with IMRT, VMAT radiotherapy and gamma knife radiosurgery, recently introducing stereotactic ablative body therapy (SABR) for lung and metastatic cancer patients. Deep Inspiration Breath Hold (DIBH) for breast patients and wide field skin VMAT treatment for patients with extensive skin cancer involving their limbs. We have also developed partnerships to support holistic care for patients with MQ allied health, in particular with the ALERT program to research lymphoedema; its causes, prevention and treatment for patients requring lower limb radiotherapy.
Across NSW, more than 200 doctors, nurses, engineers, physicists, radiation therapists and practice support team members deliver radiation therapy and medical oncology at eleven locations across the state: St Vincent’s Clinic, Sacred Heart at St Vincent’s, Macquarie Hospital, Mater Hospital, Newcastle, Albury/Wodonga, Hurstville, Concord, Kingswood, St Leonards and Frenchs Forest. In 2020, GenesisCare in NSW has expanded its comprehensive cancer care services, including theranostics and medical oncology, and an MR Linac.
Globally, the organisation employs more than 5,500 highly trained physicians, healthcare professionals and support staff across Australia, Europe, and now the U.S. This follows our acquisition of major U.S. integrated oncology provider 21st Century Oncology in May 2020.
Every year GenesisCare clinical teams see more than 400,000 people at more than 440 locations. For cancer treatment, that includes more than 300 locations in the U.S., 38 locations in Australia, 14 in the UK and 21 in Spain, with more than 30 new centres under development. Our purpose is to design care experiences that get the best possible life outcomes. We believe that care should be focused on the individual, not the condition, and are proud of our world-class patient satisfaction ratings. For more information visit www.genesiscare.com
Further information on radiotherapy can be found here
Some cancers grow in response to particular hormones in the body. Hormone therapy is used to block this effect and help to reduce the growth and spread of the cancer cells.
Further information on hormone therapy can be found here
Surgery is performed by a surgeon to remove the cancer from the body via an operation. It may be used to diagnose, remove, prevent or relieve symptoms of cancer and can be used in combination with chemotherapy, immunotherapy or radiotherapy. Surgery may be open or laparoscopic and at MQ Health, we have access to robotic assisted surgery that uses small incisions with robotic arms providing more dexterity and precision leading to better patient outcomes. Not all patients may be suitable for this option so you should discuss this with your surgeon.
Further information on cancer surgery can be found here
Below you will find useful links and information about cancer services.
Below is a selection of websites providing helpful information about cancer.
Macquarie University Cancer Program and MQ Sports have joined forces to provide a new timetabled gentle aqua aerobic class for cancer survivors. Learn more: Hydro therapy for cancer survivors
There is often a sense of uncertainty and feelings of anxiety when a cancer diagnosis is received. Even when given the all clear some survivors may feel anxious about what the future holds. At the Centre for Emotional Health Clinic we can provide psychological support to lessen unhelpful thoughts and teach skills for mental well being. More about the Centre for Emotional Health Clinic
Whether you are living long term with advanced cancer, you are facing end-of-life, or you are caring for someone with advanced cancer, this podcast series has information and insights that can help you navigate through these challenging times.
How do people cope after a cancer diagnosis? What do all the tests mean? Will treatment leave you foggy-headed? Does cancer always cause pain? Hosted by broadcaster Julie McCrossin, this podcast from the NSW Cancer Council seeks to answer all of these questions and more.
In the Finding Calm During Cancer podcast, join psychologist Dr Lisbeth Lane as she guides you through a series of meditation and relaxation practices.