The Department of Health and Human Services is urging Victorians not to neglect their health during the current pandemic as it revealed cancer screening referrals had dropped by around 40 per cent.
Minister for Health, Jenny Mikakos visited the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre which reported a fall in referrals, as potentially unwell people delayed visiting their doctor or going to hospital.
In a statement, Ms Mikakos said that people putting off visits to the doctor or hospital for lumps and unusual symptoms or delaying age-appropriate tests, could lead to more severe illnesses and added strain on hospitals’ critical and intensive care resources.
“Victoria’s world-class hospital system is well prepared to deal with any further spikes in coronavirus cases alongside its everyday operations, with strict infection control processes in place to manage additional risk,” Ms Mikakos said.
“GP clinics are also undertaking additional cleaning and are well trained in the use of personal protective equipment – to ensure they can provide a safe environment for patients throughout the pandemic,” she said.
“If Victorians have a pre-existing medical condition that requires regular treatment from a health professional, it is vital that they continue with their usual management plan – including taking any normal medicines – to protect their health and avoid hospitalisation.”
Ms Mikakos said many hospitals and GPs were offering telehealth appointments for both check-ups and ongoing conditions, to prevent the spread of infection and ensure more vulnerable groups had access to healthcare.
“Cancer screening programs are continuing to operate throughout Victoria, also with strict infection control measures in place to make sure staff and patients are safe,” she said.
“If you are due for breast, bowel, prostate or cervical cancer screening, don’t put your health at risk – make an appointment now,” Ms Mikakos said.
