Grampians Health expands haematology care
Grampians Health has expanded its haematology service, now providing patients and clinicians across its sites with access to a haematologist at any time.
The 24/7 haematology service is indicative of the strengthening specialist services across Grampians Health sites.
The expanded service is delivered by a growing team of haematologists serving Ballarat, Horsham and Stawell through clinics. As part of the expansion, frequency of clinics in Horsham is expected to increase within the next six months.
A haematologist treats blood disorders and cancers such as leukaemia, myeloma and lymphoma.
The team is also looking to start performing bone marrow biopsies in Horsham, which would remove the need for patients to travel to Ballarat for these procedures.
Dr Swe Htet, head of Haematology at Grampians Health, said the 24/7 model is designed to reduce health inequity and ensure patients across the region receive timely, specialist care close to home.
“Our goal is to deliver the same level of specialist haematology care available in metropolitan areas. By providing round‑the‑clock support and expanding outreach services, we are reducing unnecessary travel for those in the region and ensuring patients receive the right care, in the right place, at the right time,” he said.
Prior to having a 24/7 haematology service, patients requiring specialist care had to travel to Melbourne or have been transferred if they needed extensive or immediate care.
A recent emergency case highlights the impact of the round-the-clock service. A patient from Stawell presented after hours with a life‑threatening white cell count and suspected acute leukaemia. Thanks to immediate review by the Grampians Health haematology team, urgent chemotherapy was arranged and delivered in Ballarat that same night - treatment that likely saved the patient’s life. The patient remained locally for their full care pathway and is now in remission.
Dr Htet also emphasised that with Grampians Health doctors living and working in the region, they understand the needs of the community better and tailor their treatment plans accordingly.
“Since we understand the local services, we can tailor our recommendations for follow up care closer to home. This means fewer unnecessary transfers, quicker access to treatment, and more patients being safely managed close to home.”
Grampians Health has grown its haematology team over the past two years, now comprising seven part‑time consultants and three junior doctors, including an accredited advanced trainee who supports day‑to‑day continuity of care. This has strengthened the unit’s ability to manage acute presentations, oversee inpatient and outpatient care, and enhance training opportunities for future regional specialists.
Chief Operating Officer Ben Kelly said the expansion of the haematology service reflects Grampians Health’s commitment to improving access to specialist care across the region.
“To provide round-the-clock haematology care will allow us to care for patients with complex needs closer to home while providing regional Victorians with care that meets the highest clinical standards.”
