CALL THE WELLNESS CENTRE: (07) 4032 0820
CALL THE WELLNESS CENTRE: (07) 4032 0820
CALL THE WELLNESS CENTRE: (07) 4032 0820
For the first time a general practitioner will be based at COUCH Cancer Wellness Centre and will begin consultations from June 9, focussing on helping patients transition from oncology to community-based care. With more than 15 years’ experience working in the Far North, Dr Helen Hobson brings a strong clinical background and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by patients in regional and remote areas. Her appointment marks a key step in COUCH’s new era of service delivery, outlined in its recently released business plan.
Currently working at Mossman Medical Centre, three days a week, Dr Hobson will be based at the centre in Reservoir Rd one day a week to help people during and after cancer treatment. Living and working in a rural area with her husband and two young daughters, Dr Hobson has witnessed the impact cancer can have on individuals and families — especially when care requires relocation.
“I’ve been working with patients in rural areas who receive a cancer diagnosis and I’m seeing the gaps in care. They go to Cairns for treatment, away from their family and friends and support networks, and by the time they return, they’ve changed. Their life has changed,” Dr Hobson said.
“Finding the right support — no matter where someone lives — can be incredibly difficult. Being able to help people through that process is really important to me.”
Dr Hobson offers support whether you’re dealing with fatigue, emotions, pain, or simply figuring out what comes next. Key services offered will be general medical support, survivorship care planning, Medicare-enabled coordination (including GP Management Plans and Mental Health Care Plans) and care navigation. With a special interest in cancer and survivorship care, Dr Hobson is passionate about providing whole-person support grounded in compassion, clarity, and continuity.
COUCH chairman Dr Scott Davis said the team was looking forward to welcoming Dr Hobson and strengthening the centre’s integrated care model.
“Having a GP at the centre will help those who can’t find a doctor, make accessing a care plan easier and provide a trusted medical contact during a time that people are at their most vulnerable,” Dr Davis said.
Appointments are now available for clients, their families and carers.
To book, contact the COUCH Care Team on ph (07) 4032 0820 or email admin@couch.org.au.
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