Wishaw Press

Help to shape cancer strategy

- Ben Ramage

NHS Lanarkshir­e is looking for Wishaw patients and carers to help shape future cancer services in the area.

Focus groups have been arranged to discuss the service model for Systemic Anti-Cancer Therapy (SACT).

Margaret Kelly, NHS Lanarkshir­e cancer services manager, said: “SACT is a term used to describe all medicines given for the treatment of cancer.

“Chemothera­py and biological therapy are two examples of SACT routinely used to treat cancer.

“Over the past few years we have seen a steady increase in the number of cancer treatments being delivered in Lanarkshir­e.

“With a growing population, and as more and more cancer treatments become available, we anticipate that this will continue to rise.

“We have been looking at how we can redesign our current services, working in partnershi­p with the West of Scotland and patient representa­tives, to ensure we meet the needs of people living with cancer in the future.”

Both a West of Scotland region and local service review are being carried out to improve treatment delivery for people with cancer.

Lynn Mack, Macmillan cancer improvemen­t programme manager, said: “To help enhance the service we provide, focus groups have been organised to enable people to give us their feedback.

“This will allow us to learn from their experience­s and to find out what really matters to them which will help ensure all patients and carers have the best possible care experience.”

The focus groups will take place across Lanarkshir­e on the following dates: Friday, April 6, from noon to 1.30pm, in Maggie’s Lanarkshir­e at University Hospital Monklands, Wednesday April 11, from 1pm to 2.30pm, in The Haven Blantyre at Blantyre Health Centre and on Friday, April 27, from 1.30pm to 3pm, in Kilbryde Hospice at University Hospital Hairmyres.

NHS Lanarkshir­e cancer service is looking for approximat­ely eight to 10 participan­ts to attend each group.

Margaret added: “Everyone’s opinion on the model of care is important and will help us to shape and develop the future service delivery of SACT in Lanarkshir­e.

“Regardless of whether or not you chose to take part, it will not affect any current or future treatment or care you receive. We can also cover any expenses incurred for attending if required.”

All comments will be completely confidenti­al and personal informatio­n will be removed.

If you would like to attend, contact Lynn by email on lynn. mack@ lanarkshir­e. scot. nhs. uk or call 0791930869­2.

 ??  ?? Feedback Teresa Rennie, Macmillan lead haematolog­yoncology nurse (left) with Margaret Kelly, NHS Lanarkshir­e cancer services manager
Feedback Teresa Rennie, Macmillan lead haematolog­yoncology nurse (left) with Margaret Kelly, NHS Lanarkshir­e cancer services manager

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