With 30% of women diagnosed with breast cancer living outside major metropolitan cities, local health professionals play a vital role in providing optimal care and treatment. However, rural health professionals face challenges in accessing traditional models of continuing education to keep up-to-date with developments in breast cancer.

National Breast and Ovarian Cancer Centre (NBOCC) and Breast Cancer Network Australia are collaborating to deliver the Supporting Women in Rural Areas Diagnosed with Breast Cancer Program. Opportunities for rural clinicians include sessions on support for women (from early symptom to diagnosis and follow up care), risk factors, diagnosis, treatment and psychosocial care, as well as satellite broadcasts featuring a panel of breast cancer experts. For information on these education initiatives, contact Kevin Comlossy (kevin.comlossy AT nbocc.org.au, Ph 02 9357 9478). Visit http://www.nbocc.org.au for breast cancer information, including resources for health professionals.