For many individuals from regional and remote areas of Western Australia, a cancer diagnosis necessitates a challenging journey to Perth for essential treatment. This often involves leaving behind family, jobs, and the comforts of home to travel considerable distances. To alleviate the burden of this experience, the Cancer Council WA offers two dedicated accommodation lodges designed specifically for cancer patients and their carers.
Milroy Lodge and Crawford Lodge provide a supportive environment, allowing guests to focus on their health and recovery without the additional stress of finding suitable lodging. These lodges aim to create a comfortable “home-away-from-home” atmosphere, enabling patients to manage the financial and emotional challenges associated with long-distance travel for treatment.
Accommodation Features and Accessibility
Milroy Lodge, located in Shenton Park, is a single-storey facility nestled within tranquil bushland. It is conveniently situated within walking distance of public transport. The lodge features 24 single units, three double units, and two twin units, all designed to offer a calm and accessible setting for guests.
In contrast, Crawford Lodge is a two-storey establishment located on the grounds of Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital in Nedlands. It provides six single units, 49 twin units, and four family units, ensuring patients have easy access to major treatment services. Both lodges prioritize a clean, safe, and comfortable environment, with on-site support services available to assist guests during their stay.
During their time at the lodges, patients and their carers can access essential support services. One guest remarked, “Accommodation and all the other things that need to be considered can be very stressful. This place gives me one less thing to stress about.” This sentiment reflects the importance of the lodges in providing not just shelter but also a supportive community during difficult times.
Financial Assistance and Eligibility
Accommodation is charged on a per-person, per-night basis, with rates designed to be affordable. For those traveling to Perth for cancer treatment from a distance of 100 kilometers or more, including residents of Northam and York, assistance may be available through the government’s Patient Assisted Travel Scheme (PATS). This program helps cover travel and accommodation costs for eligible patients.
It is essential for patients to apply for PATS assistance in advance. Applications can be processed through the PATS Clerk at local hospitals or via the treating doctor before the journey begins. If approved for PATS coverage, patients may incur minimal costs, as the Cancer Council will directly invoice PATS for accommodation expenses, allowing patients to focus on their health rather than financial concerns.
The initiative by the Cancer Council WA to offer these lodges demonstrates a commitment to supporting regional cancer patients. By providing accessible and comfortable accommodation, the lodges play a vital role in easing the challenges faced by those seeking treatment far from home.
