THE Fiji Cancer Society continues to provide critical support to cancer patients and their families, including transport, medication and essential healthcare products.
Patient support officer Taina Gucake said the society received daily calls from patients, relatives and referrals from the Colonial War Memorial Hospital and Lautoka Hospital seeking assistance.
“We provide transport for treatment and clinic, registration for new patients, and information on services provided by the Fiji Cancer Society,” Ms Gucake said.
She said patients were eligible for the society’s support services once they were registered.
“All you have to do is bring your documents from the hospital or health centre, and we will register you and explain all the services that we provide.”
Support included medication unavailable through government pharmacies, with the society raising local purchase orders through partner pharmacies.
Patients can also receive healthcare products including diapers, pull-ups, cervical cancer pads, hand sanitisers, stoma bags, mobility devices, clinic beds and oxygen concentrators.
Ms Gucake said transport could be booked by phone call, text or Viber, while cervical and breast cancer screening is available from Monday to Friday.
She said the society faced challenges with after-hours ambulance requests, delays when ambulances were occupied, and transport delays when several patients were collected together.
Ms Gucake urged people to seek medical attention early.
“It is not too late to come for screening. Early detection saves lives.
“If you feel or see any abnormality in your body, it is very important to come early. The sooner you come, the sooner you will be treated.”
