Aim
Cancer incidence continues to rise across Australia, with one in two Australians expected to be diagnosed by age 85. In South West (SW) Victoria, 609 residents experienced a first cancer-related admission in 2024. Oncology care is delivered across multiple health services with variation in allied health (AH) capacity, oncology-specific roles, and referral pathways. This project aimed to develop an evidence-informed regional AH Oncology Model of Care to improve equity, integration, and access to supportive cancer care. The project was funded by Barwon South West Regional Integrated Cancer Services (BSWRICS).
Method
A mixed-methods service review was undertaken across five local government areas in SW Victoria. Data sources included stakeholder and consumer consultation, workforce and service mapping, and analysis of current AH oncology provision. Findings were examined against national and international evidence and contemporary cancer care frameworks to identify gaps, opportunities, and priorities for future service development.
Results
Consumers consistently identified AH as an essential component of cancer care, describing it as “just as important as the oncologists.” Key challenges included limited oncology-specific workforce, inconsistent referral pathways, fragmented communication, and access barriers including wait times, travel, and cost. Significant gaps were identified in lymphoedema management, psychology, prehabilitation, and palliative care. Referrals commonly occurred during or after treatment rather than at diagnosis, limiting opportunities for early intervention. These findings align with evidence demonstrating substantial unmet supportive care needs among people affected by cancer.
Conclusion
SW Victoria has strong AH capability but requires greater coordination to deliver equitable, person-centred cancer care. A centralised AH oncology hub based at the SW Regional Cancer Centre is proposed as the first stage of a regional model of care. A 12-month pilot incorporating dietetics, physiotherapy, and social work will test feasibility, demand, and impact, supporting integrated multidisciplinary care and improving access to services across the region.