Central Coast Local Health District will gain three government-funded McGrath breast care nurses if Labor wins the State Election in March.
The Labor Party has committed $19.5M over three years to fund an additional 29 McGrath breast care nurses across the state if elected.
Labor MPs on the Coast have applauded the announcement.
A Labor party spokesperson said breast Cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women, with 20,428 women and 212 men being diagnosed annually in Australia.
“Currently, eight McGrath breast care nurses are funded by the NSW Government,” the spokesperson said.
None of them is based on the Central Coast.
“Eight more were previously funded but the funding was cancelled in 2021.
“McGrath breast care nurses are registered nurses specially trained to provide invaluable physical, psychological and emotional support, from the time of cancer diagnosis and throughout treatment.”
The spokesperson said a McGrath breast care nurse in a full-time position supports on average 100 patients per year.
“Research shows that getting early access within the first weeks to a dedicated nurse significantly improves the experience and outcomes of a person with breast cancer, including a reduction in emergency department presentations, reduction in clinical consulting time, and improved medical appointment attendance.
“The key is that patients have access to the same nurse throughout their treatment.
“Labor’s commitment will provide access to this life saving care for all breast cancer patients on the Central Coast and across NSW, and we are proud to be the first state in the country to make this a reality.”
Shadow Minister for the Central Coast David Harris said the Central Coast has high rates of cancer.
“‘Importantly for the Central Coast, this will provide certainty for all patients and their families that they will receive specialised care and support,” he said.
Member for Gosford Liesl Teschsaid to achieve gender equality a whole of government approach needed to be taken to issues which disproportionately impact women.
“I am very proud that we have made this commitment which will benefit so many in our community,” she said.
Member for the Entrance David Mehan said everyone deserved the best medical care possible, regardless of here they live.
“I am thrilled that this announcement means that every breast cancer patient in our community and across our state will receive that,” he said.
Member for Swansea Yasmin Catley said McGrath breast care nurses have already supported over 48,000 families across the state.
“This announcement will ensure they can be there for many more, in every community,” she said.
Labor Candidate for Terrigal Sam Boughton said the care that McGrath breast care nurses offer is life changing.
“Not only do they play an integral role informed by their medical training but most importantly they offer vital emotional support for those enduring cancer,” he said.
Source:
Media release, Jan 7
NSW Labor Party
So…. I’m a bit confused. I bought a virtual seat at the cricket this summer & was under the impression that the money raised by the McGrath foundation went to employing breast care nurses. What I didn’t know is that they are State goverment employed! If either side of the State government are serious about helping people with breast cancer, then it shouldn’t matter who’s in office. I think Liberal will fund the breast care nurses too. Stop trying to scare people into voting for Labor if they don’t want to. All the best to anyone who are going through breast cancer right now.