The service will be available across 62 Accor Hotels properties close to treatment facilities in greater Sydney, Newcastle, Wollongong and other location across NSW that don’t have relevant patient accommodation facilities.  

The new partnership will complement the current NSW Government’s Isolated Patients Transport and Accommodation Assistance Scheme (IPTAAS). The overall financial burden of cancer will be reduced for these patients when they claim the commercial IPTAAS rate on these rooms. 

Cancer Council Hunter Central Coast regional manager Shayne Connell said it’s concerning to hear of patients who have chosen to forfeit vital treatment because of the financial burden and lack of available accommodation options when being treated away from their home region. 

“When you are diagnosed with cancer, your time should be spent on getting to your radiation and chemotherapy treatments, eating properly and staying focused on the goal of getting better,” Mr Connell said.

“This new service will help local cancer patients and their families rest easy knowing accommodation options close to their treatment facility will be available at a cost affordable to them.

“The new service will enhance our range of invaluable accommodation relationships across the state, including the wonderful facilities that we currently refer patients to who are being treated closer to home.”

Hotel staff will be trained to deal with specific dietary and housekeeping requirements.

Rooms will have a Cancer Council NSW support pack providing information on other cancer support services, which will aid patients and their families during treatment away from home. 

Cancer patients who require accommodation are encouraged to visit http://www.cancercouncil.com.au/ accommodation or call Cancer Council NSW on 13 11 20 to discuss their options.