Sussex cancer patients have their questions answered
More than 100 people joined us for an online session where a panel of experts presented and then answered questions, including about how to access cancer services during COVID-19 and how to get the support needed during this time.
In these challenging times, this was an opportunity for those with concerns about cancer services, including cancer patients and those that care for friends and family with cancer, to access advice from experts.
Who did we hear from?
Dr Matthew Thomas
Cancer GP Lead for East Sussex
Dr Richard Simcock
Consultant clinical oncologist at the Sussex Cancer Centre
Scarlett Jinman-Dunt
Former oncology nurse now working for Macmillan.
What did we hear?
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Cancer screenings are currently limited: Cervical screenings are being risk-stratified and breast and bowel screenings are in the process of resuming soon.
- Endoscopy and colonoscopy tests are available but delayed: Patients will be required to undergo 14-day isolation periods prior to both.
- Patients are urged NOT to hold back from contacting their GP with cancer-related concerns. GPs are open but are using remote communication with patients such as telephone and video consultations.
- Patients have not been lost in the system: But the focus on handling corona virus patients has created some delays. Rehabilitation services have re-started.
- Patients SHOULD ATTEND hospital appointments: Appropriate and safe measures are in place to avoid the risk of COVID infection.
- Movement towards managed self-care: Cancer specialists have reduced unnecessary appointments in favour of self-management at home with specialists contactable when required.
- Cancer shielding has lifted slightly with 90% of oncology appointments continuing via telephone and video.
- COVID-19 not as risky to cancer patients undergoing treatment, latest studies show.
- Clinicians fear an influx of referrals once restrictions are lifted. Figures show a 60% reduction in referrals to cancer specialists and to related services during lockdown.
- New lockdown methods are here to stay: Telephone and video consultations with GP and hospital staff will continue as a preference for non-essential face-to-face contact.
- Cancer Support services are still available via Macmillan, now using telephone support and online sessions to reach patients.
Our CEO said:
“The report we have published today jointly, with Healthwatch East Sussex and West Sussex, provides answers to important questions asked by cancer patients across the county.
We are exploring the restoration and recovery of hospital and care services with the NHS in Sussex, County and City Councils. The reality is that waiting lists, already very long in Sussex, before COVID-19, are now growing longer. Many services will be compromised for years to come, a 5 year recovery period for NHS services is probably realistic.”
Couldn't make it?
The webinar was recorded so you can watch the whole video, and you can read all the details in our full report.
Watch the Video / Read the Report
If you have any question you can contact us at:
office@healthwatchbrightonandhove.co.uk
01273 234 041
Healthwatch in Sussex
Press Contact
For comment and details on people for interview, please contact:
David Liley
Chief Officer, Healthwatch Brighton and Hove
07931 755 343
