FAQ
Complementary integrated therapies (CITs) are provided to support mainstream medical cancer treatments including surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Examples of complementary therapies are relaxation massage, reflexology and meditation.
For the full list of CITs offered by Solaris Cancer Care please refer to our guide here
International research has shown that complementary integrated therapies may assist with symptoms associated with cancer treatment including pain, nausea, fatigue, anxiety and depression.
No, research has shown that providing complementary therapies alongside mainstream therapies can produce positive results for patients.
Cancer patients and their carers may attend individual therapies, approximately one per week. Group activities and counselling can be more frequent. A program of therapies on offer is available from each centre.
All services provided by Solaris Cancer Care SCGH, SJOG Subiaco, SW and GS are free of charge.
Please be aware that some services at the Cottesloe centre incur a minimal fee.
If you would like to make a donation you can leave this at the centre or online.
The therapies offered at Solaris Cancer Care Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Wanslea Cottesloe and our regional centres in Bunbury and Albany are open to all cancer patients and carers.
Solaris Cancer Care St John of God Subiaco Hospital operates under a collaborative agreement with St John of God Subiaco Hospital and is available to patients and carers at that hospital.
Solaris Cancer Care observes legislative requirements of privacy and confidentiality.
All details are confidential at all times.
Patients and carers may self-refer; referral from a health care professional is not required.
Yes, all therapists have accredited professionals. Information about qualifications of all therapists is available upon request.
The centres are open Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 4.30pm.
Solaris Cancer Care Great Southern is open Monday to Thursday from 8.30am to 4.30pm. Please contact us to book an appointment.
SolarisCare Foundation does not receive ongoing government funding. As a community-based health organisation, we are reliant on the generosity of community partnerships, support from the general public and fundraising events, in particular, the Solaris Cancer Care Red Sky Ride.
Complementary therapies can help in several ways. Mind-body techniques allow people to explore their emotions and give an opportunity to discuss thoughts, feelings and concerns. They may also reduce the symptoms of pain, stress, depression, sleeplessness and fear. Examples of these therapies are acupuncture, creative visualisation, meditation and yoga.
Touch/body-based practices may reduce pain, fatigue, anxiety, depression and nausea. Examples are kinesiology, massage and reflexology.
Energy based therapies are very gentle and non-invasive as they unblock energy and restore its flow throughout the body to restore balance. It may provide a sense of warmth calm and relaxation. Pranic healing, reiki and healing touch are examples.
Most treatments can be given in the ward and in the outpatient area.
All of the CITs can be given to patients with Central Lines, PICC Lines and PORTACATHS as all of the therapists will avoid those areas completely. Lymphoedema Massage and Drainage will only be given by specifically trained therapists. Please enquire when booking.
All Solaris Cancer Care Centres welcome everyone to drop in and relax in the comforting and calming surrounds at any time. People are encouraged to utilise the library, literature and have a cuppa, a chat with our volunteers or even curl up on the lounge with a magazine or have a nap.