Patients with cancer living in regional and rural Victoria experience several disadvantages, including a lower survival rate and barriers to clinical trials, compared to patients living in Melbourne.
In collaboration with the Regional Trials Network, the VCCC Alliance introduced Regional Oncology Leads to represent Victoria’s regional cancer community to expand trials, foster education opportunities, and improve partnerships and networks.
Associate Professor Craig Underhill is a medical oncologist, Clinical Director of Oncology Services at Albury Wodonga Health, and Clinical Director of Hume Regional Integrated Cancer Services. In 2017, he was appointed the VCCC Alliance Regional Oncology Lead.
As a regionally based clinician, A/Prof Underhill is aware of the gaps and unmet needs related to cancer care in regional Victoria. Working with Associate Professor Ian Collins, the regional oncology representatives play a pivotal role in actively participating in programs of work. A/Prof Underhill is the VCCC Alliance Teletrial Program champion, a key structure for establishing cancer clinical trials in a regional setting.
He also contributes to the VCCC Alliance Cancer Research Advisory Committee, the committee reviews, guides and oversees all strategic programs, providing expert direction for successful completion.
A/Prof Underhill completed his Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery in 1987 at the University of Melbourne. He became a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians in 1997 and has previously worked as the Senior Clinical Research Registrar at Guy's Hospital, London.
