Following the release of figures by the Royal College of Radiologists (RCR) showing that only three extra cancer doctors have joined NHS Wales during the last five years, and the warning by Dr Martin Rolles, RCR, that the shortage of cancer specialists poses a real risk for the future, Janet Finch-Saunders, Assembly Member for Aberconwy, is seeking assurances for residents in North Wales.
Janet said:
“Whilst progress is being made in cancer research and treatment, it is true that 1 in 2 people in the UK will contract the disease during their lifetime.
“Clearly, it is in our national and personal interest to ensure that we have the best service possible, and that access to diagnosis and treatment is not hindered.
“It is extremely worrying that the Royal College of Radiologists (RCR) have found that there has been such a small increase in cancer specialists in Wales. More so, I am aware that our North Wales cancer centre has the lowest number of consultant clinical oncologists per million population in Wales, and eighth lowest in the UK.
“When considering that these oncologists treat cancer with radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, I believe that urgent assurances are needed about the future of cancer services in North Wales.
“I have written to Vaughan Gething AM, Minister for Health and Social Services expressing my concern at the number of consultants in North Wales, and asking what measures will be taken to help improve the situation in the long term.
“Like the RCR, I do believe that one positive step would be to increase funding for junior doctor training posts in oncology”.
ENDS
Written Assembly Question to Vaughan Gething AM, Minister for Health and Social Services: Will the Minister make a statement on the fact that North Wales has the lowest number of consultant clinical oncologists per million population in Wales, and explain what measures he will take to recruit more specialists to Glan Clwyd?
Documents:
Clinical Oncology UK workforce census report 2018
Notes:
Cancer specialist shortages in Wales 'a real risk'
