Hartlepool hospital trust urges patients to seek urgent care after big fall in cancer treatments

Attendances for cancer treatments at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust fell by 65% year-on-year in April as it’s believed patients are frightened about catching coronavirus.

April saw just 22 women attend for suspected breast cancer compared to 338 in April 2019.

Attendances for other key cancer services have also seen big drops including 78 for colon and rectal cancers, down from 196 the previous year, 37 for lung cancers down from 62, and 37 for urological cancers, down from 94.

Trust Medical Director Deepak Dwarakanath said: “We completely understand that people are apprehensive about coming to hospital at the moment, but we are urging people not to delay in accessing treatment.

“We’ve put strict procedures in place throughout our hospitals, such as temporarily stopping visits, and physical distancing measures are evident in all our buildings.

“Anyone who needs to be referred to hospital should come to their appointments.

“We’re all very concerned about the low numbers of people attending cancer appointments.

“We want everyone to be assured that their safety and well-being will always be our number priority.

“No one should be afraid to come into hospital.”

Mr Dwarakanath added while the trust offers virtual consultations for follow ups and reviews, there are some procedures we need to deliver in person.

The trust has shared the positive experience of one patient who received successful breast cancer treatment.

She was referred to the Breast Cancer Unit as an urgent case after finding a lump and was given a hospital appointment the following week.

The woman, who wishes to remain anonymous, said: “Despite the coronavirus situation I felt safe.

“Throughout my journey everyone, doctors, nurses, radiographers, healthcare assistants and Breast Care Unit staff were so lovely and caring.

“I think some people believe the world has stopped for other illnesses such as mine.

“However, it hasn’t, if you need urgent treatment, you can get it. I know first-hand.”

Related: Hartlepool Health Team’s message to town to keep virus fight momentum going

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