FAQs
You may have questions regarding your treatment and what to expect. Please see below for the most frequently asked questions. Our friendly team is available should you need further assistance.
Referrals may be made by any GP or medical specialist in New Zealand. Once we receive a referral letter, patients will be contacted within two working days to arrange an appointment with a specialist.
We receive referrals through HealthPathways (ERMS) and Medtech PMS’ Specialists & Referrals (SR) system.
You can also call us on 03 375 6100, or email us at cancer.care@stgeorges.org.nz to refer a patient.
Once we receive a referral letter, patients will be contacted within two working days to arrange an appointment with a specialist.
When are arrive for your first consultation, you will need to complete a registration form. Please let us know if you would like to receive these via email prior to your appointment.
Your first consultation will typically last an hour. It is a good idea to bring a support person and a list of questions you would like to ask the oncologist.
Your oncologist will explain the nature of your illness and talk through recommended treatment options, and you will have the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.
In most cases, your oncologist will be consistent throughout your cancer treatment journey. Some cancers will require more than one oncologist who is familiar with your cancer diagnosis. This may vary from patient to patient depending on the specific treatment you require.
Whilst on treatment your oncologist may request that you are reviewed by our Nurse Practitioner or Clinical Nurse Specialist.
Following your first consultation with your oncologist, you will be provided with an estimate of the costs of your treatment.
We accept both self-funding patients and those with health insurance.
Our patient coordinators manage all referrals and appointments. To cancel or reschedule an appointment, please contact our team on 03 375 6100 and follow the voice prompts to select your treating team.
During your treatment, if you are feeling unwell, follow the instructions on the green card to speak to one of the clinical team.
You can organise to have blood tests at Southern Community Labs (scl), your GP practice nurse or at Canterbury Health Laboratory.
If you have a PICC or Port you will be given an appointment for your blood test with one of the nurses at St George's Cancer Care Centre.
We do not have an inpatient area. If you are too unwell to stay at home we would arrange for you to be referred to the emergency department at Te Whatu Ora.
For all radiation patients on treatment, they are able to have their seasonal flu vaccine.
For all patients on chemotherapy and/or immunotherapy we recommend the seasonal flu vaccine ideally before treatment starts or on your middle (good) week between treatments. Any questions, please speak with your treating nurse.
Still have a question? Get in touch.
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At St George's Cancer Care Centre we pride ourselves on being the patients' choice for world class cancer treatment. With cutting edge technology and decades of experience in our field we go above and beyond to provide innovative clinical care with you at the centre of everything we do.