New Toowoomba Hospital could help cancer patients save thousands in out-of-pocket expenses for treatment

The new $1.3bn Toowoomba Hospital could save cancer patients thousands of dollars in lifesaving treatment, as one woman shares the reality of having cancer in regional Australia.

The new Toowoomba Hospital could save cancer patients thousands of dollars, with the possibility of procedures and follow ups conducted in the Darling Downs instead of elsewhere.

On average, patients battling blood cancers can see out-of-pocket expenses range between $5000 and $11,000 to simply undergo potentially lifesaving treatments.

Though the new $1.3bn hospital at Baillie Henderson is still within its design stage, its cancer unit may save patients unnecessary fees and travel to Brisbane.

“Part of this phase includes exploring the option of offering post-autologous stem cell transplantation care locally for haematology patients in our region, following a re-infusion in Brisbane,” a Darling Downs Health spokesman said.

“This potential expansion of services would mean patients could return to Toowoomba sooner for ongoing management of their care, reducing the need to stay in Brisbane for an extended period of time.”

Cancer survivor Jodi Thomas, Monday, February 27, 2023. Picture: Kevin Farmer

59-year-old Clifton woman Jodi Thomas was diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) in July 2021, and was quickly thrown into a world of lifesaving treatment.

Without treatment for the blood cancer, Mrs Thomas was told she would have no longer than two to three years to live.

“I had no idea I was sick,” she said.

“It was only through routine blood tests that it came out. The doctors in Toowoomba told me about my treatment options, and what would happen if I didn't do them, and I said ‘There’s nothing to think about. Let’s do it’.”

For six months, Mrs Thomas underwent treatment at Toowoomba Hospital to keep her blood levels stable until a suitable stem cell donor was found.

In June 2022, she underwent her stem cell transplant, which meant she had to stay in Brisbane for three months for 100 days of isolation.

Thankfully, Mrs Thomas was able to stay at the Leukaemia Foundation Accommodation Village free of charge. However, following her treatment, she was required to travel a five-hour round trip each fortnight to Brisbane for check-up appointments.

“My car is a diesel, and when (it) was up at $2.40 a litre, I would use at least half a tank, which was about $100 for the one appointment,” she said.

Cancer survivor Jodi Thomas at home with her horse Nulla, Monday, February 27, 2023. Picture: Kevin Farmer

“If I had an appointment too early or too late in the day, I would have to stay the night, and that’s another couple hundred dollars.”

Mrs Thomas, who is retired and lives with her husband on a property, said that while some of her medication is covered by the pharmaceutical benefits scheme, it could still cost her a lot of money.

“I’m lucky, I’ve had the easier ride,” she said.

“I never got sick from the chemo or transplant. But I was very lucky because my daughter-in-law was able to take three months leave without pay from work and come up and look after me.

“Thankfully, I can do most things now. I’m pretty much back to normal.”

Mrs Thomas, who said cancer runs in her family, said the way she was brought up had made the transition into her new life easier.

“Worrying about something doesn’t change anything, so you’ve got to get on and get it done,” she said.

While her specialist wanted to keep a close eye on her, Mrs Thomas hoped that soon all check-up appointments could be done in Toowoomba, instead of having to travel.

The Leukaemia Foundation’s World’s Greatest Shave raises millions of dollars to help families facing a blood cancer diagnosis, and Mrs Thomas has encouraged others to sign up or donate where possible.

This March 15 to 19 is the 25th anniversary of the fundraiser, and residents are encouraged to sign up at the World’s Greatest Shave website.