CAR T-cell therapy (short for Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell therapy) is a special treatment for some types of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. It is used when the cancer comes back (relapses) or doesn’t get better (refractory) after other treatments.
This therapy has been available in Australia for a few years. It is also funded by the government. For some people with relapsed or refractory Large B-cell Lymphoma or Follicular Lymphoma, it is now the standard treatment.
But even though it is approved and funded, not everyone in Australia can easily get it.
Why Are People Missing Out?
CAR T-cell therapy is only offered in a few states. Right now, it is available in:
New South Wales
Queensland
Western Australia
Victoria
This means people living in other states, like South Australia, must travel far to get the treatment. Some have to leave their home for several months. This can be hard for both the patient and their family. Being away from loved ones and support can be stressful and lonely.
One Family’s Story
Sharon Millman, the CEO of Lymphoma Australia, spoke on ABC Radio SA about this issue. She was joined by Steph Walker whose father had to travel from South Australia to Melbourne for CAR T-cell therapy.
Steph shared how difficult it was for her family and why access to treatment closer to home is so important.
What’s Happening in South Australia?
Professor Keith McNeil, who is the Commissioner for the Commission on Excellence and Innovation in Health, also joined the radio interview. He explained the steps needed to bring CAR T-cell therapy to South Australia.
Right now, there are plans to prepare the Royal Adelaide Hospital to become an approved CAR T-cell therapy provider, with hopes it will be available by the end of the year. This is a big step that could help more people get the care they need without leaving their state.
Listen to the Full Interview
You can hear the full 18-minute interview on ABC Radio SA Mornings with Rory McClaren. The discussion starts at 2 minutes and 14 seconds into the recording.
Click here to listen to the interview on ABC Listen
