We are here to help and support you throughout your treatment journey and have a range of support services available for you to access.
CanSupport
CanSupport is a cancer information and support service at the NSCC for people with cancer, their families and carers. The resource centre, including a wig library can be found next to reception in the NSCC.
CanSupport can help link patients in with other members of the treatment team. For example, dietitians, social workers and clinical psychologists. They can also help in accessing financial assistance, legal services and accommodation.
Cancer Helpline
The Cancer Helpline is a unique service available at Royal North Shore Hospital that has been operating since 2017.
If you are a patient or carer and have concerns about treatment side-effects, please call the Cancer Helpline on
1800 965 222.
The Cancer Helpline is available Monday to Friday 8am – 4.30pm (not on public holidays) and is run by an experienced cancer nurse.
Please call us if you have any symptoms listed below or problems that are concerning you.
- Nausea/vomiting not relieved by medications
- New pain or pain not relieved by medications
- A sore mouth/mouth ulcers
- Constipation or diarrhoea
- Urinary problems
- Skin rash
- Feeling generally unwell
Nurse practitioner symptom urgent review clinic (SURC clinic)
There is a symptom clinic available for patients within the NSCC run by a medical oncology nurse practitioner. The nurse practitioner is able to assess, diagnose and manage symptoms from cancer related treatments and problems. You may be referred to see the nurse practitioner from the Cancer Helpline.
Cancer nurse co-ordinators
You may have a cancer nurse co-ordinator who specialises in your cancer type. They work closely with your healthcare team and can provide advice around your diagnosis, treatment and recovery. They can also help manage treatment side-effects and link you in with supportive services.
Palliative care services
Palliative care aims to improve the quality of life of people with serious illness. It also includes care of the patient’s family. Palliative care services are available to all patients. It is common for people with cancer to be referred to the palliative care team. Members of the palliative care team include doctors, specialist nurses and social workers.
Frequently asked questions
Please, speak to your treating team about any concerns you might have. We have prepared a selection of frequently asked questions to assist you in your treatment journey.