Northumberland cancer patients getting best support in the country
Cancer patients in Northumberland are getting the best support in the country during their treatment, according to new figures.
Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust has been ranked the highest performing in England for the second year running in the latest National Cancer Patient Experience Survey.
The survey, carried out by Picker on behalf of NHS England, monitors national progress in cancer services.
The Trust achieved an overall score of 9.29 out of 10 – the highest-rated trust nationally.
The results showed 98% of patients say a member of their care team in Northumberland helped them develop a personalised care plan to address their needs and 93% said they were given information about where to access support for
managing the immediate side effects of treatment.
The survey results come as the Trust’s Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service marks its first year of operation.
Based at Wansbeck General Hospital, the service provides information, emotional support and practical guidance for people affected by cancer, including patients, families and healthcare professionals.
In the year to May, the service recorded 1,813 interactions with people affected by cancer, supporting 714 individual users and hosted 54 community events across Northumberland and
Amanda Walshe, lead cancer nurse said: “I’m extremely proud of my colleagues whose efforts have been recognised through these results.
“The survey demonstrates that patient care is at the forefront of our work and underpins everything we do to deliver excellent services.”
Marion Dickson, The Trust’s executive director of operations for surgery, child health, clinical support and
cancer services, said: “This achievement reflects the dedication, compassion and expertise of our teams, who work tirelessly every day to deliver outstanding care and support for patients and their
families.
“Our cancer services are committed to providing the highest standards of care at every stage of a patient’s journey, and this recognition is a testament to the professionalism, skill and kindness shown by our staff every day.
“Most importantly, these results demonstrate our commitment to putting patients at the centre of everything we do.”
Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust is one of the largest trusts in the country geographically, providing services to more than 550,000 people across Northumberland and North Tyneside.