GROWING demand for cancer services has been answered thanks to a huge financial package which will help ease Barnsley patients’ waiting times for radiotherapy treatment.
More than £7m has been invested in two new state-of-the-art linear accelerators at Weston Park Cancer Centre, it was announced this week.
There are many different types of radiotherapy equipment but the most common radiotherapy machine is a linear accelerator (LINAC).
Although based in Broomhill, scores of cancer-stricken Barnsley residents will be able to access the service.
The move comes after NHS data stated 85 per cent of cancer patients urgently referred by a GP should start treatment within 62 days.
However, just 76 per cent of Barnsley-based patients urgently referred by the NHS who received cancer treatment in September began treatment within two months of their referral.
The new machines were officially opened by Dr Trish Fisher, retired clinical oncologist and former clinical director for specialised cancer services at the trust.
Trish was invited to cut the ribbon in recognition of over 30 years of outstanding contribution she has made to Weston Park and cancer care across the region.
Dr Fisher said: “I was thrilled to be invited to officially open this important new wing which houses two more state-of-the-art radiotherapy machines which halve the treatment time for patients compared to previous machines that we used.
“This £7m development represents another step forward in our commitment to providing the highest standard of cancer care to patients from across South Yorkshire and beyond using the latest technology.”
The development includes a purpose-built extension wing at Weston Park Cancer Centre to house two new radiotherapy machines which enable faster, more precise radiotherapy treatments and will provide additional capacity to meet the growing demand for radiotherapy.
The new wing also provides a modern, welcoming waiting area for patients and staff facilities.
Chief executive of NHS Providers, Daniel Elkeles, said: “NHS staff have worked incredibly hard over the summer delivering more tests, more checks and more treatment - but the demand for care just keeps on growing.
“We can’t go on like this - we need to do more to prevent illness and catch problems before they get worse.
“The NHS has plans in place to deal with the pressures but the public can play their part as well.
“It’s really important that people who are eligible get themselves vaccinated as a vital line of defence against the winter bugs.”
Health Minister Stephen Kinnock praised the work of NHS staff but said the government knows it has more to do to curb waiting times for ill patients.
He added: “That’s why we’re pressing ahead with new surgical hubs, evening and weekend scans, and cutting-edge technology to get millions more patients treated on time.
“Backed by £29bn in extra funding this year, our investment and reforms are delivering real results for patients - and none of it would be possible without the tireless commitment of our NHS staff.
“Through our ‘Plan For Change’ we are making our NHS fit for the future.”
