Founding doctor recognised in Australia Day Honours

Icon Cancer Centre Co-Founder and Haematologist, Dr Paul Eliadis has been honoured with a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for his significant service to medicine as a clinical Haematologist and to charitable initiatives. In recognition of this honour, we look back at his career highlights and extensive contribution to the community.

Dr Eliadis has spent his entire career caring for patients and supporting their families through what can often be the most difficult time in their lives. Seeing an opportunity to improve how cancer care could be delivered, in 1988, Dr Eliadis, alongside Drs Ian Bunce and Trevor Olsen founded Haematology and Oncology Clinics of Australia (HOCA) at The Wesley Hospital in Brisbane, Queensland. They were true pioneers of private oncology practice in Queensland, establishing HOCA during a time where cancer care was only delivered in the public setting. Leaving the public sphere and utilising their depth of clinical experience and research to develop a personalised approach to care would form the foundations of setting a new standard of care.

“I’m fortunate enough to be in a position to give back, and this donation was very important to me. Knowing that it’s helping to students thrive and promoting the continued learning of classic is a comfort and I hope to see can be enjoyed for generations to come.”

In line with his passion for the arts and culture, in 2017, Dr Eliaidis donated the entire Easton Pearson collection to the Museum of Brisbane in the hopes it could be appreciated for generations.

With a career spanning over 35 years, Dr Eliadis continues to make a difference in the lives of so many people both within cancer care and haematology, and for future doctors and arts students. This deserving honour is yet another milestone in his formidable career.

“When I see a good opportunity I go for it. I’ve spent my life in medicine and arts, disciplines that I believe go hand in hand. There is an artistic side to medicine, it’s scientific, but there is also a real human aspect. As a doctor, I want to understand my patients and ensure they are cared for in the best way possible … If we can do something that ultimately contributes to the community – no matter who we are – that is worthwhile.”