Medical Oncologist

A medical oncologist is a doctor who treats cancer with chemotherapy, biological therapies and other drugs. The medical oncologist is usually the person who coordinates the patients’ treatment plan. The medical oncologist has a registrar who makes some medical decisions in his/her absence.

Radiation Oncologist

A radiation oncologist is a doctor who prescribes radiation therapy to shrink or eliminate tumours.

Nursing

The nursing team is made up of clinical nurse managers, clinical nurse specialists and staff nurses. Nurses will support you when going for your surgery, chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Nurses provide bedside care, ongoing assessment, and education and support to patients and their families.

Dietician

Patients with certain types of cancer may experience difficulties eating or may loose their appetite. The dietician can help patients maintain weight and provide information to ensure a healthy and balanced diet during treatment and afterwards. The dietician may also help patients plan their menu while in hospital.

Social Worker

Patients and their families require practical and psychosocial support before, during and after their treatment. Our social worker is available to assist you and your family with discharge planning and the co-ordination of home care when the time comes that you are ready to be discharged from hospital. Our social worker will also liaise and direct you and your family to community based services and help in dealing with the financial aspect of a cancer diagnosis.

Psychiatrist

A psychiatrist is a specialist doctor who treats depression and anxiety that commonly occurs during or after a patient has had treatment for a cancer diagnosis. Psychiatrists can prescribe medicines to ease the symptoms of depression and anxiety, some patients may find this beneficial when adjusting to life before or after cancer.

Psychologist

A clinical psychologist is a psychologist who specialises in the assessment, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of persons with mental health concerns, including psychological difficulties related to physical illness. Our clinical psychologist provides a range of assessments, interventions and therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). These services can help patients, families, and staff by addressing the cognitive, psychological, emotional, and behavioural challenges associated with cancer.

Occupational Therapy

The Occupational Therapist can address issues around self care, home activities, and the use of adaptive equipment or environmental modifications, including relaxation techniques, positioning and pain management strategies to maximise quality of life and participation in tasks important to the patient.

Chaplaincy

Blackrock clinic can offer chaplaincy from a variety of faiths and denominations to offer spiritual care. Our hospital chaplain is here for you, if you are a patient, family member or visitor and whether or not you have a religious faith or belief. The hospital chapel is located on the ground floor. The chapel is always open to you to come for prayer or a quiet place. Mass is also said here daily at 11am and transmitted to patients rooms via channel 14.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapists in Blackrock clinic have a wealth of experience in assessing and managing the physical problems which may develop as a result of cancer or its treatments. The physiotherapist may help you with a wide range of problems such as regaining independence and mobility problems as a result of treatment. The physiotherapist may assess and fit you for a mobility aid such as crutches, a stick, or a zimmer frame. Your doctor can arrange for you to be referred to a physiotherapist.