The Westmead Breast Cancer Institute (BCI) has been delivering evidenced-based multidisciplinary breast cancer care to women in its care since its inception in 1995.
BCI supports men and women with suspected or diagnosed breast cancer, their carers and families by providing diagnostic, treatment, support, education and research services for the prevention and management of breast cancer.
Westmead Breast Cancer Institute (BCI) is committed to delivering the best possible information, advice, treatment and care to our clients and patients with breast cancer. BCI offers a comprehensive range of treatment clinics including multidisciplinary breast cancer care.
The need for a multidisciplinary, patient-focused approach in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer underpins our vision and the BCI’s four programs:
Westmead Breast Centre provides a comprehensive diagnostic breast imaging service including mammography, ultrasound, biopsy facilities and pathology services for patients with a symptom such as a breast lump and for women with an abnormality following a mammogram.
The Westmead Breast Centre has been designed to accommodate a multidisciplinary team approach to health care. All new and post-operative patients are seen by a team of surgeons, radiologists, pathologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, breast care nurses and health support staff.
At the BCI a high priority is placed on achieving the best aesthetic surgical results possible, with an emphasis on oncoplastic surgical approaches for breast cancer, inclusive of the full range of reconstructive procedures. Decisions regarding medical oncology and radiation oncology treatment are made in close collaboration and co-ordination with Cancer Services, pathology and radiology in a multidisciplinary meeting.
An important initiative of the BCI is to educate consumers and health professionals, and to undertake research that will lead to a better understanding of breast cancer and improve treatment outcomes.
The comprehensive breast research program is incorporated into the current model of care covering all aspects of breast disease, diagnosis and treatment, with the overall aim of attaining a better understanding of breast cancer and improved treatment and patient outcomes.
BCI also provides vital support services for patients and their families such as education, lymphoedema support, counselling, relaxation classes and support groups for both women and their partners.