MINISTER WELCOMES ADDITIONAL BREAST CARE NURSES FOR QUEENSLAND

Health Minister Stephen Robertson today welcomed the announcement of additional Breast Care Nurses for Queensland under a new Federal Government initiative.

Today’s announcement by Federal Health and Ageing Minister Nicola Roxon will mean greater support for women diagnosed with breast cancer, and their families.

Mr Robertson said the $12 million Rudd Government initiative, in conjunction with the McGrath Foundation would provide greater access to breast care nurses for Queensland women in regional areas.

Queensland currently has 17 Breast Care Nurse positions located in metropolitan, rural and regional areas.

The McGrath Foundation has worked closely with Queensland Health and other stakeholders to identify priority areas for the additional positions.

Under the new initiative Queensland will receive funding for an additional 5 positions, which will provide support for women in Cairns, Mackay, Mount Isa, Gympie, Hervey Bay, Gladstone, Kingaroy, Warwick, Dalby, Roma.

“These specialist trained nurses play an invaluable role in providing information, supportive care and care coordination to women and their families from the point of diagnosis with breast cancer,” Mr Robertson said.

“They also ensure women are aware of local community support services available to them.

“This is just one of the Rudd Government’s commitments to combat breast cancer and provide greater access to care, particularly for rural and regional women.

Mr Robertson said a diagnosis of breast cancer was a traumatic time for both women and their families and it was important they had access to support.

“However screening, early detection and an increased investment in research is seeing many more positive outcomes for women diagnosed with the disease,” he said.

Women aged 50-69 years are encouraged to have a free BreastScreen every two years at a BreastScreen Queensland Service.

Women aged 40-49 years and those over 70 are also eligible for a free BreastScreen.

To arrange a free breastscreen, or to find out about the closest service or when a mobile service is visiting your area, call 13 20 50.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and Mr Robertson is urging Queenslanders to show their support.

Media: Kate Van Poelgeest 3234 1185