Cancer and COVID-19 in Victoria: Supporting immunosuppressed patients throughout restrictions

People with blood cancers are likely to have compromised immunity due to their disease or its treatment, placing them at very high risk of opportunistic infections. As such, many patients with cancer and their families may be concerned about the risks and impacts of COVID-19, which could be compounded by media coverage, rapid changes in information and disease containment uncertainty.

While restrictions to limit the spread of COVID-19 have been effective in Australia, physical distancing and quarantine have limited opportunities for family support and social connections, impacting the wellbeing of patients with cancer and their families.

Patients who are immunosuppressed may face health and wellbeing concerns, from the risk of infection itself to financial stress caused by job losses, and some severe mental health challenges.

• How can healthcare professionals support immunosuppressed patients?
• What are the key issues?
• How will changes to health practices be incorporated into cancer services?

Moderated by Dr Tricia Wright, Clinical Haematology and Director of Cancer Services, Latrobe Regional Hospital, this webinar aims to provide practical guidance for healthcare professionals to support their patients, as well as a discussion on the challenges developing and solutions progressing.

Event details

Friday 17 July, 1-2pm.

Register for webinar here.