Cancer patients in Somerset are benefitting from a new clinical service that provides extra support in the months and years after radiotherapy treatment.
The Macmillan Radiotherapy Late Effects Service provides specialist advice, support and management to people experiencing the ongoing effects of radiotherapy.
The service was initially pioneered at Musgrove Park Hospital and has been expanded to treat patients at Yeovil Hospital.
It provides a range of services, from lifestyle changes and self-management to prescribing medications, and referrals to specialist regional and national services. Patients may be referred for counselling or exercise programmes, which include swimming and other activities to improve function and sleep.
It’s the first service of its kind in the UK, where all NHS trusts in a cancer alliance work with Macmillan to give patients across a region the same level of support and has been recognised with a Macmillan Professionals Award for Innovation Excellence.
More details about the service can be found on the Macmillan website.
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