About Melna Oncology Centre / Newcastle, KZN
Specialist Clinical and Radiation Oncology care with clear guidance, compassion and respect.
Melna Oncology Centre
Melna Oncology Centre is a specialist oncology practice based in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal, providing Clinical and Radiation Oncology care under the leadership of Dr Thandeka Buthelezi-Zulu, Specialist Clinical & Radiation Oncologist.
We understand that a cancer diagnosis can bring uncertainty, difficult decisions and many questions. Our approach is centred on helping each patient understand their diagnosis, the treatment options available to them and what to expect as their care progresses.
From the first consultation through treatment and follow-up, our aim is to provide thoughtful, individualised oncology care with clear communication, compassion and respect.
Melna Oncology Centre
There is no single cancer journey and no treatment plan that is appropriate for every patient.
Treatment recommendations depend on many factors, including the type of cancer, its stage and biological characteristics, previous treatment, general health and the individual circumstances of the patient.
At Melna Oncology Centre, these factors are considered carefully when developing and discussing a treatment plan. Patients are encouraged to ask questions, understand the purpose of their treatment and participate in decisions about their care.
Where treatment involves other specialists or healthcare providers, oncology care may form part of a broader multidisciplinary treatment plan.
What guides our care
Every patient’s diagnosis and circumstances are different. Treatment planning begins with a careful assessment of the available medical information and consideration of the treatment options appropriate to the individual patient.
Cancer terminology and treatment decisions can be difficult to understand. We believe patients should have the opportunity to ask questions and receive clear explanations about their diagnosis, treatment options, expected course of care and possible side effects.
Cancer treatment often takes place over weeks, months or longer. Continuity allows the oncology team to understand the patient’s history, monitor progress, respond to concerns and adapt the care plan when necessary.
Cancer affects more than a diagnosis on a medical report. It can affect families, relationships, work, finances and emotional wellbeing. We aim to provide care in an environment where patients feel heard, respected and supported.
For people living in Newcastle and surrounding communities, travelling considerable distances for specialist appointments can add another burden to an already difficult period.
Having access to specialist oncology care in Newcastle can reduce unnecessary travel for aspects of care that can be provided locally and allows patients to remain closer to their families and support networks.
Clinical leadership
Specialist Clinical & Radiation Oncologist
Dr Thandeka Buthelezi-Zulu leads the clinical care at Melna Oncology Centre.
Her qualifications include:
MBChB (UKZN)
Dip HIV Management (SA)
FC RadOnc (SA)
MMed (UFS)
As a Clinical and Radiation Oncologist, Dr Buthelezi-Zulu is involved in the assessment, treatment planning and ongoing management of people diagnosed with cancer.
Her approach places importance on careful clinical decision-making, communication and ensuring that patients understand the reasoning behind their treatment plan.
Treatment & care
Precise treatment. Individually planned. Radiotherapy, also known as radiation therapy, uses carefully planned high-energy radiation to…
Explore treatments →Cancer treatment that works throughout the body. Systemic cancer therapy refers to treatments that travel through…
Explore treatments →Melna Oncology Centre
Melna Oncology Centre is based at Medicare Medical Centre in Newcastle and provides specialist oncology care to patients from Newcastle and surrounding communities.
Cancer care frequently involves several healthcare professionals. Where appropriate, Melna Oncology Centre works alongside referring doctors and other members of a patient’s healthcare team to support coordinated care.
Our purpose is straightforward: to provide specialist oncology care with clinical judgement, clarity, compassion and respect, while helping patients access appropriate care as close to home as reasonably possible.
Melna Oncology Centre
If you have recently been diagnosed with cancer, have been referred to an oncologist or would like to discuss your treatment with Dr Buthelezi-Zulu, contact Melna Oncology Centre.
The next step
Discuss your diagnosis and treatment options with Dr Buthelezi-Zulu and the Melna Oncology team.