Campaigners praised for lobbying States on availability of drugs

Supporters are hopeful that many of the 3,073 patients identified by Health & Social Care who have been unable to access drugs that are routinely available on the NHS will benefit in future.

Deputy Peter Roffey, a prominent campaigner for NHS parity, credited the efforts of campaigners for the change.

‘To be honest, the very supportive mood in the States seemed a million miles from the indifference and even hostility that the idea of relaxing our drug funding regime received when I first suggested it early on in this political term.

‘That’s history, and all is well that ends well, but much of the credit for changing hearts and minds must go down to the sterling efforts of patient-campaigners who have lobbied with great responsibility and dignity.’

Campaign group Healthcare Equality for All (Heal) also credited brave individuals and was delighted that the States had supported the proposal overwhelmingly.

‘Many islanders still do not realise that our drug and treatment policy, over a period of more than 10 years, has incrementally rationed their access to many of the newest and clinically effective drugs and treatments,’ said a spokesman.

‘This step change in policy would not have occurred, in the time scale involved, without the deeply personal and private stories of numerous Heal members who presented evidence to deputies, to the review panel and shared so openly their challenging health journeys so publicly on the radio, TV and in the Guernsey Press.’

Tim Osborne, who struggled to receive medication for leukaemia, was one of the campaigners who shared his story with the media.

‘This is brilliant news for the Bailiwick. I’ve already received my medication but this is a victory for others who will need it in the future. I’m pleased to have been a little part of the process.’

Andy Wilson, who was also denied leukaemia medication, was delighted by the vote.

‘I’m absolutely delighted and rather surprised by the majority. It shows the argument has been won. It was a ground-breaking moment.’

Mr Wilson and Mr Osborne praised Heal chairman Mike Read, who they described as the driving force behind the movement.

Deputy Heidi Soulsby, the president of Health & Social Care, stressed the benefits of increased funding.

‘This decision is expected to benefit thousands of people directly who may live longer, may live in less pain or be able to live independently and productively for longer.’

Despite the widespread celebrations, concerns about the cost of new treatments have been raised.

Policy & Resources said that the policy would require a 0.5% to 1.0% increase in headline tax rate.

• See last week's States voting records here.