Oncology in the bush.

From what I remember of my first appointment - we chatted about my surgery, scans and treatment options (including whether I wanted to take part in any clinical trials that were available) and was given the 'percentages' that my treatment was going to give me to prevent a recurrence.

I am not so much in the 'bush' @jan61 - more 'regional, up the NSW mid coast'.  

The closest radiation available to me was at Port Macquarie (1.5hr trip each way.)  Port Macquarie Base Hospital has a fully kitted out 'Rotary Lodge motel' attached to the hospital for 'out of towners' like us. For a very nominal fee, I was able to stay there with my husband for the full 4 weeks of radiation - so I didn't have to do the driving (as I am the driver in the family.)

We could duck home on the weekends (or stay if I chose to) and altho the radiation was daily - it was still a bit of a holiday (sort of!)

The Cancer Institute is just a 2 minute walk from the Rotary Lodge - which makes is SO easy to 'do'.  The manager of the Lodge is just superb.  A really special lady.

There are some lovely Rad Oncs at the Cancer Institute (mine was Dr Carmen Hansen) - if you could get your  referral to THEM - you wouldn't have to do the daily travel, and have a bit of a break with the family, which should make it that little bit easier to endure.

All the best for your appt with your surgeon and ongoing treatment xxx

Hi @jan61 
Distance is something that most people don't have to deal with, so I'd suggest you really focus on how your remote circumstances are managed. Don't get too wrapped up with the actual poisons, they are nasty regardless of where you live.

 You need to figure out how you deal with unexpected complications, what support services are available and how you can access them. Find out who the social worker is. You may not need them, but if you do, don't be stuck starting from scratch. Find out about accommodation and transport subsidies and which hospital is best if you have an issue and where you will be sent if something happens that can't be dealt with at your local.  

Cancer is a bit like pregnancy in remote areas, some people just chug through it, some unexpectedly become high care and that is where a bit of forward planning is useful.

From my experience, the first appointment with the oncologist is to discuss your cancer, scans and treatment options and for him/her to recommend a plan.  As my plan was for chemo and I was in agreement, my chemo treatment was booked in then and the nurses discussed the finer detail of what I could expect.