Far North MSP raises patient fears over Highland oncology crisis

Far North MSP David Green has challenged NHS Highland to ensure that the current crisis in oncology services does not become "the new normal" following a public meeting hosted by the North Highland Cancer Information & Support Centre.

The meeting came the day after news broke that NHS Highland's oncology service is experiencing "significant consultant workforce shortages", creating "some risk to service resilience and potential delays to treatment" for cancer patients.

The transfer of selected patients for radiotherapy or specialist treatment to health boards outside the Highlands comes amid growing concerns that services centralised in Inverness appear to be less accessible than ever.

The North Highland Cancer Information & Support Centre is an independent charity based in Thurso. It provides information, practical support and a welcoming space for people affected by cancer across the Far North.

Mr Green met with a packed room of volunteers, trustees and service users on Friday (17 July) to hear first-hand about the challenges facing cancer patients and their families across the Far North.

Concerns about cancer services, including the loss of support during chemotherapy, access to specialist equipment and treatment closer to home, and the long distances many patients travel for appointments and surgery were raised with Mr Green.

Discussion also focused dissatisfaction with communication from NHS Highland regarding service changes, points all now raised by Mr Green in writing to the Chief Executive of NHS Highland.

Caithness, Sutherland and Ross MSP David Green said:

"I am grateful to everyone associated with the North Highland Cancer Information & Support Centre for taking the time to share their experiences with me. The volunteers at NHCISC do a tremendous job in creating a community of support, and they well deserve our thanks.

"Their experiences speak to the acute challenges people in the Far North face in accessing care, particularly where treatment involves long journeys, overnight stays and time away from home.

"I believe everyone should be able to access the care and support they need as close to home as possible. That is not only their right, but it is ultimately the best way to deliver the best outcomes for patient wellbeing.

"I have written to NHS Highland seeking answers to the concerns raised with me and will continue to press for assurances that the current crisis in oncology services does not become the new normal."

Mike Murdoch, Chair of the North Highland Cancer Information & Support Centre, added:

"We were pleased to welcome David to the Centre and show him the work we do to support people living with cancer across the Far North. One of our biggest challenges is simply making people aware that we are here and that we are an independent local charity dedicated to helping people through some of the most difficult times in their lives.

"Our members spoke openly about their experiences and the challenges they face in accessing treatment and support. We appreciate David taking the time to listen and hope his visit helps raise awareness of both the issues facing patients and the support available through our Centre."

ENDS.