Oncologists need listening to when new drugs emerge
I WISH to thank Deputy Peter Roffey for raising the issue of the use of, or more to the point lack of, new NICE-approved drugs for cancer patients. Furthermore, it was interesting reading Tim Osborne’s personal story on the front page of the Press on Thursday 1 March and viewing his coverage both on BBC and ITV.
Some success has been achieved as you may be aware insofar as Ibrutinib is now available for use. The real aim of all this publicity is to ensure that current cancer sufferers and, just as important obviously, the next generation of sufferers are given the best possible treatment on the island. It is imperative that the oncologists at Bulstrode, the professional experts, are listened to carefully with regard to any new drugs that come on the market in the future. These new drugs are often very expensive, but, quite frankly, it is not good enough to say the island cannot afford them and cuts would have to be made elsewhere if they were used.
Incidentally, I have been a patient at Bulstrode for the last two and a half years. My specialist is Dr Andrew Davies, who comes to the island from Southampton every month to see current and new patients. I cannot praise enough the first-class service of the oncologists, nurses and administration staff at Bulstrode.
Finally I would like to thank all the volunteers who serve drinks and lunch, and Elaine Roussel, who comes in every Monday with her delicious rock cakes.
JOHN HOOKER,
President,
Guernsey Lymphoma and Leukaemia Support Group.
Les Hannieres,
Clos Beaumont,
Rue des Goddards,
Castel,
GY5 7JG.