Island cancer patients continue to receive treatment

Virtual consultations available

Manx cancer patients are to continue to receive specialist consultation where possible. 

The government says it's offering alternative consultations via the telephone, for those affected, to ensure fewer people go to hospital amid the pandemic.

Some patients are being directed to specialists in the UK, and for people who need to be seen face-to-face, a video link is available to the Clatterbridge Cancer Centre.

Breast, bowel and HPV cancer screenings are still currently suspended.

Chemotherapy and other cancer treatments are still available at the Island's Oncology Day Unit.
 
According to the Department of Health and Social Care, a technical failure with the pharmacy's isolation unit, used for the production of chemotherapy drugs, temporarily delayed treatment, but is now running at full capacity.
 
Services for those with a suspected cancer also had to be suspended due to the Covid-19 situation.

Diagnostic clinics are back up and running, and it's understood a team is working to clear the backlog of patients waiting for referral appointments.
 
Health Minister David Ashford says: "I want to reassure people that there has not been a blanket suspension of cancer surgeries and oncology treatments.

"Decisions are being made by specialist teams on a case-by-case basis.
 
"Cancer surgeries are still going ahead, although not necessarily in line with previous schedules because of theatre capacity.

"While oncology services are continuing, the production of treatments was impacted for a short period and as a result, some patients’ treatment plans were temporarily deferred."
 
The minister added "The suspension of the symptomatic breast clinic was a temporary measure due to unavoidable circumstances.

"I am aware this caused distress for some of those waiting to be seen.

"Our specialist team did everything they could to support patients during this difficult time and are continuing to do so now the service is back up and running."