Who are Cancer Council NSW?
Cancer Council NSW is Australia’s largest cancer charity, providing a wide range of support services, including emotional support, financial and legal support, practical assistance, and information resources. We have a large network of qualified professionals and volunteers who help deliver our services.
When should I consider making a referral to Cancer Council NSW?
A referral to Cancer Council NSW is appropriate when a patient, carer, family member, or friend requires information, emotional and practical support due to a cancer diagnosis.
Who can make a referral to Cancer Council NSW’s Information and Support Services?
Referrals can be made with consent from the individual by healthcare professionals, friends, family members, or patients facing or living with a cancer diagnosis. This portal is for the use of healthcare professionals only; individuals, family and friends must call 13 11 20.
How do I make a referral to Cancer Council NSW?
To make a referral, visit the ‘Refer a new client’ on the portal homepage. The process involves providing relevant information about the individual's needs, health situation and circumstances.
What information is needed for a successful referral?
The information required for a referral includes the individual's name, contact details, a brief description of their situation, and any specific needs they may have. You will be required to provide details about the person's health, and for some services, their legal, financial, or specific care needs. Providing relevant medical details, contact information, and an understanding of their support requirements will facilitate the process.
Can I follow up on the status of a referral?
Yes, you can track the progress of a referral by logging into the portal and selecting “View my Clients”. Alternatively, you can call Client Services on 1300 360 541. They can provide updates on the assessment, timings and service delivery processes.
How can I arrange urgent services for a patient?
If urgent assistance is needed, please indicate this when requesting support by ticking ‘priority’ and provide as much information as possible around the timeframe in which the client needs support. We will prioritise cases based on urgency, ensuring that individuals with immediate needs receive prompt attention, however, timeframes will differ depending on the services the client requires.
You can also call Client Services on 1300 360 541 to discuss the urgency of a request.
Is there a cost associated with Cancer Council NSW's services?
Our services are generally free of charge, including accessing our information resources and support from our 13 11 20 consultants.
Some of our emotional and practical support services are limited to patients and carers experiencing financial hardship and eligibility criteria will apply. These services may be available at a cost to the patient or carer should they not meet this eligibility criteria.
We rely on donations and community fundraising to support our services and ensure that individuals affected by cancer receive the assistance they need.
Are there specific eligibility criteria for Cancer Council NSW services?
Yes, eligibility criteria applies for some services, and is based on various factors, such as cancer stage, income, language, state of residence, and whether they have accessed the service previously. We may need to assess individuals further to determine their eligibility for specific services.
How long does it take Cancer Council NSW to respond to a referral?
Response times vary, but we aim to respond to referrers to confirm their request has been received within 24 hours. The service delivery time varies based on factors such as urgency and the complexity of the case. You can inquire about expected timeframes by calling Client Services on 1300
360 541. We aim to assess and coordinate services as efficiently as possible, and you can track progress in the portal by selecting ‘View my Clients.’
Is there a way to confirm if my patient is already receiving services through Cancer Council NSW?
Yes, you can inquire about the status of your patient's services by logging into the portal and selecting ‘View my Clients’.
If you have not referred the patient, you can check whether another health professional at the same treatment centre as you have previously referred the patient by selected ‘View my clients’ and searching for the patient’s name.
If you have not made a referral for them previously, contacting Client Services on 1300 360 541. They will provide information on the services the individual is currently receiving or has received previously.
What if my patient's needs change after the initial referral?
If there are changes in your patient's circumstances or care needs, it is important to inform us by calling Client Services on 1300 360 541. This ensures that their service is adjusted accordingly to meet their evolving requirements, or it may mean that they are no longer eligible for the service.
If a client requires support more urgently than anticipated, please inform us by calling Client Services on 1300 360 541.
