For the cancer patients under his care, he said, 24/7 access to quality advice and local services was especially important.

"A cancer diagnosis is quite confronting," he said. "Having someone available to talk to during business hours is reassuring - but it's often after-hours or on weekends when they need information the most.

"Those times can be quite lonely and frightening and having information available 24/7 can help reduce that anxiety until they are able to speak to someone."

Dr Nasser was keen to have input into the Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District's (ISLHD) new website, along with other clinicians and user groups.

The previous website was limited in the information it offered, and was not mobile friendly - making it hard for people trying to access it on their phones or tablets.

The new website has been two years in development - and it's been designed to be ever evolving.

Which means specialists like Dr Nasser and his team are able to update and add details so patients - and referrers - have the latest information to hand.

"Patients want to be as informed as possible about their health care and their local services," he said.

"Our previous website was a bit threadbare, so we've ramped up our online presence so we can support all patients on their health journey - from diagnosis, through treatment and beyond."

The website (islhd.health.nsw.gov.au) features a range of new sections. These include profiles on the region's specialists; the latest news on hospital upgrades and information for those looking for a career within the health district.

It also integrates with HealthDirect's 'symptom checker' which guides people to the most appropriate care - whether that's a GP or the emergency department.

"The launch of our new website is just the beginning," ISLHD chief executive Margot Mains said.

"We want to continuously work with consumers, the community and other partners to further develop the site with more well-being and healthy living information."