What we offer
The L. Rigby Integrated Care Unit opened at Wonthaggi Hospital in April 2021. It is a modern, purpose‑built unit with experienced staff focused on making patients feel supported and well cared for.
The unit provides cancer and blood‑related treatments, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, blood transfusions and other supportive therapies. Patients can also attend specialist appointments, including consultations with a Radiation Oncologist, by referral.
What we do
Our skilled nursing team supports patients throughout their treatment journey. From the first visit through to leaving with a clear care plan, our dedicated Nurses are trained in administering complex treatments, managing central venous access devices and providing ongoing care and support.
The team also runs a weekly clinic to help manage symptoms such as fluid build‑up in the abdomen or chest. Staff are committed to delivering compassionate, high‑quality care and feel privileged to support patients every step of the way.
Through thorough assessment on presentation, patients may require additional services such as social work, occupational therapy, physiotherapy and dietetics. We're also able to refer to these services.
How to access treatment
A medical practitioner referral is required - general referral enquiries.
Phone: (03) 5671 3175
Preferred referral method is:
Email: access@basscoasthealth.org.au
Fax: (03) 9102 5307
The referral will be received and then triaged by a medical specialist.
The team will then coordinate an appropriate appointment time and be in contact with you. Occasionally more information will be required, and we will liaise directly with your referring doctor.
If you require care elsewhere within Bayside Health, this will be organised for you.
- A transfer will be organised with the staff/specialist
- The referral will need to be updated
- You will go through the access team and then triaged
- This will then be organised for you.
People who are affected by cancer require other resources and services apart from medical treatment because cancer can interfere with normal life activities such as:
- Appearance changes, eating problems, nausea, constipation, tiredness and lethargy
- Concentration and memory changes
- Decreased functional ability and confidence
- Difficult conversations
- Family concerns about parents, partners, spouses, children, siblings
- Fears, doubts, sorrow, depression and other feelings
- Relationship challenges and changes in sex lives
- Support needs
- Work-related difficulties, financial, childcare or transport.
More information
A starting point can be the Guides to Best Cancer Care freely available on the Cancer Council page.
This allows you to spend time alone to go through the information in your own time or if you need information before your care, a nurse will be able to answer questions.
All the information, education and steps will be provided to you when you are referred for Oncology or to a Haematologist.