The NSW Government is delivering on its promise to support additional McGrath Breast Care Nurses across the state.
A $18.6 million investment over 4 years will see 29 new McGrath Breast Care Nurses providing free support to breast cancer patients in metro, regional and remote communities.
Eight of the 29 nurses have already commenced their new positions at Concord, St George, Taree, Blacktown, Gosford, Fairfield and Wollongong Hospitals.
The specially trained McGrath Breast Care Nurses provide free care, support and are a key point of contact for patients during their treatment. They become a trusted, consistent, and knowledgeable point of contact, and explain complicated aspects of treatment to patients, during what can be an incredibly stressful period.
This NSW Government investment will see 29 additional McGrath nurses in:
- Sydney Local Health District (LHD)
- South Eastern Sydney LHD
- Hunter New England LHD
- Western NSW LHD
- Central Coast LHD
- Illawarra Shoalhaven LHD
- South Western Sydney LHD.
The NSW Labor Government is committed to improving access for people with breast cancer to critical support services.
The 2023-2024 NSW Budget also committed an additional $34.3 million over 4 years to Women’s Health Centres to improve access to healthcare for women.
The service of a McGrath Breast Care Nurse is free and available without a doctor’s referral.
Quotes attributable to Premier Chris Minns:
“Too many of us know someone who has been impacted by breast cancer.
“It is a scary and a stressful time, and every bit of support counts.
“McGrath Breast Care Nurses give priceless support to patients and their families when they need it most.
“These specially trained nurses can make a big difference, and we’re pleased to be delivering on this commitment to support more people across NSW.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park:
“One in 7 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime, and this investment will ensure more people across our state have access to this incredibly important service.
“Breast care nurses are an incredible source of continuous support for patients, and they do wonders to minimise the stress and trauma which comes with a breast cancer diagnosis.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Women Jodie Harrison:
“I am really proud we’re improving access to breast cancer support for women across the state.
“The breast care nurses make an incredible difference in the lives of patients and their loved ones, providing patients and their families with support from diagnosis all the way through treatment. I would like to share my appreciation for their commitment to this important role.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Industrial Relations Sophie Cotsis:
“A breast cancer diagnosis can be extremely distressing, not just for the person diagnosed but also the entire family.
“As a breast cancer survivor, I welcome this investment.”
Quotes attributable to CEO McGrath Foundation Holly Masters:
“We are incredibly grateful for the expanded support of the NSW Government who will help us towards our goal of ensuring no one with breast cancer in NSW misses out on the free care and support of a breast care nurse.”
