Tamworth man, and cancer patient, Peter Carroll was told the service would cease after June 30.

In a statement to The Leader, Peel sector general manager Catharine Death said there would be no change to the service.

“The Tamworth community nursing team and palliative care clinical nurse consultant will continue to provide in-home visits and care to our palliative care patients,” Ms Death said.

“There will be no change in this service to our patients and their carers and families.”

Mr Carroll said he had received about “half a dozen” visits from a nurse in recent months and said it was a big relief to hear the service was staying.

The Tamworth man has been receiving treatment for bowel cancer, which has also moved to his abdomen.

“It’s a big relief, they’re wonderful people doing a wonderful job,” he said.

“They’re not just helping the patients, they’re helping the hospital, too.

“They might stay for half an hour or a bit longer, but it’s good to talk with someone about what I’m going through.”

Mr Carroll said he had received fairly comprehensive care, from having transport to medical appointments and meals arranged, as well as assistance with an advanced-care plan.

The Tamworth man said the service allowed him an opportunity to sit and talk with someone about his treatment and how he was travelling.

The NSW government has vowed to increase access to palliative care, with Health Minister Jillian Skinner recently launching an after-hours palliative care helpline.

“Having access to advice and support overnight, on weekends and public holidays is a key factor in whether people remain at home, particularly in regional and rural areas, where there is limited access to GPs and support services after hours,” Mrs Skinner said.

The free-call helpline is staffed by registered nurses trained in palliative care and can be reached at 1800 548 225 after hours and  right across weekends and public holidays.