If you want to go public @Loobylou, you are living in the right place as there are excellent services close to you.
The private/public debate rages on. If you can afford it, private practitioners are an option. If you can't, go public for some procedures. As Kate has pointed out, it is essential to find out what the out of pocket costs are before you commit to anyone.
Chemotherapy is free, regardless of who prescribes it, you do, however pay for discharge medications and any private specialists you use.
The main consideration when it comes to oncologists is whether you like your doctor. If you don't take to them, find another.
Mxx