Westmead Breast Cancer Institute services

About our services

The Westmead Breast Cancer Institute (BCI) has provided the highest standards of evidence based, multidisciplinary breast cancer care since 1995.

We support women and men with suspected or diagnosed breast cancer, as well as their carers and families. We provide a comprehensive diagnostic service, multidisciplinary treatment, support, education and research services focused on the diagnosis, management and support of breast cancer patients.

We are committed to providing clear information, expert advice, high quality treatment and compassionate care. We offer a comprehensive range of clinics that deliver coordinated, multidisciplinary breast cancer care.

Our approach

A multidisciplinary, patient focused approach guides all care at BCI. Our work is delivered through these integrated programs:

• breast screening
• diagnostic breast imaging
• clinical care
• research
• education.

Diagnostic and imaging services

The Westmead Breast Cancer Institute provides comprehensive diagnostic breast services for people with breast symptoms, such as a lump, and for women with other abnormalities found on breast imaging.

Services include:

• mammography
• ultrasound
• tomosynthesis
• biopsy service
• pathology review
• localisation procedures
• expert radiologist review.

Multidisciplinary care

The Westmead Breast Cancer Institute is purpose built to support team based care. All new and post operative patients are reviewed by a multidisciplinary team that may include:

• breast surgeons (including oncoplastic and reconstruction expertise)
• breast care nurses
• breast pathologists
• radiation oncologists
• breast radiologists
• medical oncologists
• clinical psychologists
• research and clinical trials staff
• allied health.

Treatment decisions are discussed and coordinated through regular multidisciplinary meetings, working closely with cancer services, pathology and radiology.

Surgical care and reconstruction

BCI places a strong focus on achieving the best possible surgical and aesthetic outcomes. Care includes oncoplastic breast surgery and access to a full range of reconstructive procedures, where appropriate.

Research and education

Education and research are central to BCI’s work. We support consumers and health professionals through education programs and conduct research to improve understanding of breast cancer and treatment outcomes.

Our comprehensive breast research program is embedded within our model of care and covers all aspects of breast disease, diagnosis and treatment. The aim is to better understand breast cancer while improving patient outcomes and experiences.

Support services

BCI provides a range of support services for patients and their families, including:

• counselling services
• lymphoedema support
• patient and carer education
• relaxation classes
• support groups for women and their partners.

These services are designed to support people throughout diagnosis, treatment and recovery.