Oncology rehabilitation

We offer a wealth of experience in medical and oncology nursing and care, working as a team to deliver a personalised health care program to help take care of your medical, physical and emotional needs.

Our oncology rehabilitation services

Our hospitals offer oncology (cancer care) rehabilitation services that may:

• help reduce side effects of treatment and medication such as pain, anxiety, fatigue or generally being unwell and unfit after cancer treatment
• provide dietary education and advice to help you be as healthy as possible
• consider strategies to help you cope with cancer, such as managing stress and how to use relaxation and positivity to improve your wellbeing
• offer group or individual exercise and education sessions to help you better manage your day-to-day life.

We encourage families, carers and friends to support you and be a part of your rehabilitation journey.

Your health care team may include:

• rehabilitation specialist
• oncology nurse coordinator
• physiotherapist
• occupational therapist
• dietitian
• social worker
• pastoral support.

Ballarat oncology rehabilitation program details

Our oncology rehabilitation program at St John of God Ballarat Hospital aims to provide overall conditioning and education to assist you gain a greater sense of wellbeing in a supervised, social and friendly atmosphere.

The seven-week program is held each Monday and Wednesday morning. It includes a graded, land-based exercise program, taken at the patient’s own pace, and education sessions within a supportive group environment.

Education topics include:

• Coping with fatigue
• Healthy eating and cooking
• Pharmacy
• Coping with stress
• Living with cancer, life changes and communication
• Tai Chi and spiritual care
• Exercise and cancer
• Lymphatic care
• Relaxation
• Sleep management
• Community support

For more information, please contact the Ballarat Outpatient Rehabilitation Unit on 03 5320 2592.