Systemic Anti-Cancer Therapy (SACT) most commonly known as “chemotherapy” is one of the 3 main pillars of cancer treatment. Historically the term chemotherapy implied treatment with anti-cancer cytotoxic and alkylating agents however in the 21st century this modality incorporates much more than traditional lines of treatment. SACT therefore includes chemotherapy, immunotherapy and even some novel type ‘drug’ approaches to cancer therapy such as “CAR-T” (chimeric antigen receptor treatment) that re-engineer your own body cells to recognise and destroy cancer cells.
SACT also involves a range of administration approaches from blood vessel infusions to subcutaneous injections as well as an increasing number oral medications.
This section provides information on the various chemotherapy (SACT) related programs supported by the Department as well as some tools to assist with best care and safe administration of these agents.
Guidelines for timely initiation of chemotherapy
A proposed framework for access to medical oncology and haematology cancer clinics and chemotherapy services in Victoria
Home Based Cancer Care
Home Based Cancer Care (HBCC) is an important initiative for Victorians that is designed to allow some patients to have their chemotherapy delivered at home.
Oncology Electronic Prescribing Systems co-investment program
The department is inviting expressions of interest for co-investment to implement oncology electronic prescribing systems across public health services.
Victorian Therapeutics Advisory Group Chemotherapy Audit Toolkit
A toolkit to help health services audit chemotherapy prescribing and a framework that provides best practice recommendations for management of chemotherapy prescribing variations.
Updated