As an experienced consultant oncologist, I have had the privilege of supporting patients through some of the most challenging times of their lives.
Over the years, I have seen first-hand the transformative impact that private cancer care can have on a patient’s journey. While the NHS does remarkable work under immense pressure, private care offers unique benefits that are difficult to replicate in a public healthcare system.
For many, choosing private oncology care is not just a medical decision but an emotional one, rooted in the desire for control, consistency, and personalised attention.
Here are some of the key reasons why private cancer care can be a compassionate and empowering choice…
Prompt access to care
Cancer is a deeply personal journey, and the care patients receive should reflect this. Private oncology care ensures patients receive the time, attention, and tailored support they deserve. One of the most significant advantages is the speed of access. In private care, there are no long waiting lists or delays in diagnostic testing and treatment. Early detection and swift action can make all the difference, and private care often eliminates the agonising waiting periods for results or treatment.
Another benefit is the ability to access the latest treatments and technologies. Private facilities frequently invest in cutting-edge equipment and therapies, ensuring patients have access to the most advanced care available. This level of innovation can offer hope and options where others might feel limited.
Utilising Harley Street expertise across the country
Harley Street has long been synonymous with excellence in private healthcare, and the cancer specialists here are among the best in the world. However, private care is no longer confined to London. Many Harley Street consultants, including myself, are utilising the advancement in remote work offered to us post-Covid and can now work with clients across the UK, ensuring that patients nationwide can benefit from a high level of expertise, without the need to for frequent travel.
Whether you are in Manchester, Birmingham, or Edinburgh, you can access the same high-quality care that Harley Street is renowned for, making world-class oncology support more accessible than ever.
Putting patients in the driving seat
One of the most empowering aspects of private cancer care is the control it gives to patients. Private care allows you to choose your consultant, decide on the timing of your appointments, and even explore second opinions without the bureaucracy that can sometimes hinder progress. This sense of autonomy can be incredibly reassuring during a time when so much feels out of your hands. Having the freedom to make informed choices about your care is a fundamental part of the private healthcare experience.
Consistent consultant care
In private oncology care, every appointment is with a consultant — not another member of the team. This continuity of care builds trust, fosters a deeper understanding of your needs, and ensures that you are always speaking with an expert who knows your case intimately. Many patients tell me how much they value this personal connection. It’s not just about the clinical expertise; it’s about feeling seen, heard, and truly cared for by someone who is with you every step of the way.
Rapid access to treatment
The harsh reality of the NHS, is the institution’s struggle to fit the sheer number of cancer
patients into a treatment plan quickly and efficiently. Treatment options, waiting times and access to specialist services are much quicker with a private oncologist.
As with all cancer treatment, the faster you are treated, the better chance we as oncologists have of curing the cancer you are suffering with. Private oncology can get you started with the latest medical technologies as quickly as a week after you enter our clinic. Not only this, private oncology also gives you rapid access to any further investigations you may need.
A compassionate choice
Cancer is more than a medical condition; it is an emotional and psychological journey. Private care recognises this and provides a level of holistic support that extends beyond the physical. From shorter waiting times to personalised treatment plans, private oncology care is designed to reduce stress and empower patients. At its core, it is about restoring dignity, offering hope, and ensuring that every patient feels valued and supported.
In my years of practice, I have learned that no two cancer journeys are the same. What remains constant, however, is the need for compassion, understanding, and choice. Private oncology care is not just about advanced treatments or luxurious facilities; it is about putting the patient at the heart of their care. For those navigating the uncertainties of cancer, this level of personalised support can make all the difference.
As your largest organ, your skin is one of the most important things to look after on your body. There are many preventative measures you can take to avoid any long-lasting damage. Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide, but with early detection, it’s almost always treatable.
Time and time again, I’ve witnessed the effects early detection (and actioning any changes early) can have on the prognosis and curability of skin cancer. As a consultant who treats people who have metastatic melanoma, I’m passionate about ensuring people spot the signs of skin cancer early. When it comes to radiotherapy for non-melanoma skin cancer, I know that the best cosmetic outcomes are achieved from treating small lesions – so don’t delay to seek a diagnosis and treatment.
It’s important to be clued up on the key symptoms, diagnostic strategies and warning signs that should prompt you to seek medical attention.
Symptoms of skin cancer
The symptoms of skin cancer can vary depending on the type of cancer you have. Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma all have different signs, but some general signs to watch for include:
- New growths: Any unusual growth on the skin that wasn’t there before
- Changes to existing moles: Alterations in size, shape, or colour
- Non-healing sores: Persistent sores that do not heal over weeks or months
- Itching or pain: Lesions that are itchy, tender, or painful
- Bleeding or oozing: Spots that bleed, ooze, or form a crust without injury
The difference between cancerous and non-
cancerous moles
Benign moles are generally uniform in colour, have smooth borders, and remain consistent in appearance over time.
The ABCDE rule is used to identify the characteristics of melanoma:
- Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other
- Border irregularity: Edges are jagged, notched, or blurred
- Colour variations: Multiple colours such as black, brown, red, white, or blue
- Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil rubber)
- Evolution: Noticeable changes in size, shape, or symptoms like bleeding or itching
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important that you consult a dermatologist as soon as possible.
Other skin cancer symptoms you may experience
As well as changes to the skin, there are other symptoms you may experience if you’re
diagnosed with skin cancer.
Non-skin-related skin cancer symptoms include:
- Swollen lymph nodes near the affected area
- Fatigue and unexplained weight loss (in rare cases, with advanced melanoma)
- Pain in bones or other areas if the cancer has spread
Early signs of skin cancer
Early detection is the best thing you can do for a positive skin cancer outcome.
This early detection is critical and subtle signs can indicate the onset of skin cancer. These early detections include:
- A small, pearly bump or a pinkish area (often a sign of basal cell carcinoma)
- A rough, scaly patch that may crust or bleed (common in squamous cell carcinoma)
- A mole or spot that looks different from others on your body—often referred to as the “ugly duckling” sign
Skin cancer in lesser known areas
Skin cancer doesn’t always occur in sun-exposed areas. We often hear about individuals
noticing mole changes, but there are other common areas that aren’t as widely documented, including:
- Face and scalp: Basal cell carcinoma is commonly found here due to chronic sun exposure
- Hands and feet: Acral lentiginous melanoma, a rare type, often affects palms, soles, or under nails
- Hidden areas: Melanoma can appear in less obvious places like the groin, under breasts, or even on mucous membranes
The signs of skin cancer that you shouldn’t ignore
It’s essential to act quickly if you notice any of the following:
- A mole that changes rapidly over weeks or months
- A sore that bleeds, crusts, or does not heal
- Persistent redness, swelling, or tenderness around a lesion
- Dark streaks under fingernails or toenails
- Any new growth on previously clear skin
Skin cancer is a serious condition, but early detection saves lives. Regular skin self-
examinations, using the ABCDE method, and annual dermatologist visits are crucial steps in maintaining skin health.
If you notice any suspicious changes, don’t delay—consult a specialist right away.
About Dr James Wilson
As a highly experienced clinical oncologist, I provide comprehensive care for patients with metastatic melanoma. My goal is to start your treatment quickly and efficiently, using the latest medical advancements.
My approach combines rapid access to the most appropriate treatments with compassionate support for you and your loved ones. I focus on preserving your overall health and minimising long-term effects of cancer and its treatment. With extensive training from world-leading institutions, I offer personalised care tailored to your unique needs.
As a Clinical Oncologist specialising in lung cancer treatment, I’m passionate about not just treating cancer, but ensuring my treatments are as safe as possible for every patient. Yesterday, I had the privilege of presenting at the British Cardiovascular Society/British Cardio-Oncology Society/UCLH Cancer Academy Course at the Royal College of Physicians in London, sharing expertise on an important aspect of cancer care that often goes undiscussed: protecting the heart during radiotherapy.
What are the side effects of radiotherapy on the heart?
When treating lung cancer with radiotherapy, the heart often receives some radiation dose due to its position in the chest. While we’ve always known this isn’t ideal, recent research has shown just how important it is to minimise this exposure. Potential side effects can include:
- Changes to heart rhythm
- Damage to heart muscle
- Increased risk of heart attacks and heart failure
- Impact on heart valves
As my lung cancer treatments become more effective and patients live longer, protecting the heart becomes increasingly crucial for long-term survival and quality of life.
How do I protect the heart during lung cancer treatment?
One of the most exciting developments in my field is cardiac-sparing radiotherapy. This technique involves carefully optimising treatment plans to reduce the radiation dose to the heart while maintaining effective treatment of the cancer. It’s not about compromising on cancer treatment – it’s about being smarter with how we deliver that treatment.
What is proton beam therapy and how does it help?
For selected patients with lung cancer, I can offer proton beam therapy – an advanced form of radiotherapy that can be particularly effective at sparing the heart from unnecessary radiation. Benefits include:
- More precise targeting of tumours
- Less radiation to healthy tissue
- Reduced heart exposure
- Potentially fewer side effects
Unlike conventional radiotherapy, proton beams stop at a precise depth in the body, potentially reducing the radiation dose to the heart and other healthy tissues. This can be especially beneficial for patients whose tumours are close to the heart or who have pre-existing heart conditions.
What should my patients know about modern lung cancer treatments?
For patients considering radiotherapy treatment for lung cancer with me, these developments highlight several important points:
- I use modern radiotherapy techniques that can be adapted to protect the heart
- I personalise treatment based on individual risk factors
- I provide enhanced follow-up care with both cancer and heart specialists to ensure comprehensive monitoring
- My focus is on both treating cancer effectively and maintaining quality of life
How am I advancing lung cancer treatment?
The field of radiation oncology is constantly evolving, and I’m committed to staying at the forefront of these developments. In my practice, I offer:
- Cardiac-sparing radiotherapy techniques
- Proton beam therapy for selected patients
- Advanced imaging technology
- Personalised treatment planning
How do I provide personalised cancer care?
As I continue to advance my understanding and techniques, one thing remains constant – my commitment to personalised, expert care for every patient. By considering each person’s individual circumstances, including their heart health, I work with patients to choose the most appropriate treatment approach.
If you’re concerned about radiation therapy and heart health, I encourage you to book an appointment to discuss this with me. As a specialist in this field, I’m here to ensure you receive the most appropriate and safest treatment for your situation.
When the TV drama ‘House’ was at the peak of its popularity, at least 2-3 patients a week would ask me if I knew this guy – the character, Dr James Wilson from the show.
Now, it’s only a couple of patients a month that ask, but he clearly made an impact on the audience as they still remember him despite the show finishing in 2012.
Curiosity still hasn’t got the better of me. I’ve not watched a single episode of House. But when a patient told me that I shared a lot in common with the character, I thought it at least warranted a Google.
From what I read, for the most part, I am incredibly flattered. House is a modern take on the Sherlock Holmes mysteries. They’ve been updated and relocated to a hospital setting. Wilson is the Watson to House’s Holmes. Reading the Sherlock Holmes stories as a child, I always preferred the loyal, sensitive, considered Watson to Holmes – who I always considered to be a bit flashy!
Google tells me that the fictional Dr James Wilson is compassionate and empathetic. He acts as the moral compass for the maverick, but ethically questionable House. Which are, of course, characteristics that I’m grateful to be associated with, but part of me also worries that he might be the sort of person I’d not be rushing to meet at a party.
A quick trip to YouTube put my mind at ease. Dr James Wilson also seems to be quite humorous and light-hearted, something that I hope I can be too. I’ve seen how maintaining a sense of fun has helped many of my patients – particularly when their treatment and the choices they sometimes have to make can feel difficult and heavy. I always think a person’s ability to laugh is a good indicator of how they are doing. I’ll always aim to maintain your quality of life – which must include play and fun.
I did, of course, recognise the actor who plays my namesake – Robert Sean Leonard. Though I only really know him from the late 80s classic ‘The Dead Poets Society’. I watched this again recently and enjoyed it as much as I did then. It’s become a little hackneyed, but ‘Carpe Diem’ really isn’t a bad philosophy for life. Though for whatever reason, the quote from that film that still rings in my ears is the warning that ‘Sucking the marrow out of life doesn’t mean choking on the bone’ which probably gives you too much of an insight into how I differ from the Dr James Wilson from the Princeton-Plainsboro Teaching Hospital.
I’m writing this post in a sticky, overcrowded King’s Cross train station on a wet summer Friday evening. Coming from the North East, but living and working in London means that I have spent a lot of my life either on the East Coast main line or excitedly waiting at King’s Cross to meet people when they come to visit.
For the last hour, I have been refreshing the arrivals information on my phone every couple of minutes, hoping that the train that my sister is on somehow miraculously speeds up. I know this is pointless because every time I refresh it there’s an extra few minutes added to the already delayed arrival time.
It’s really easy to bash the trains and just complain about how they always let us down, but when I look behind my annoyance I see there’s a lovely reason for me getting cross or annoyed. The reason I’m here is because I’m excited about seeing people that I love, miss, and care about. I’m always genuinely touched that they’ve made the effort to come down to see me and spend their weekends with me. It’s these things that make life fun and make us feel connected and valued.
Alternatively, I’ve got a more serious reason for travelling. It might be that a member of my family is unwell, and I need to get up to see them quickly both to put my mind at rest and to offer any help that I can. So, when I’m delayed in those situations I feel my heartrate go up and I spend the whole journey sitting on the edge of my seat, willing the train to speed up, tapping my watch and turning down the offer of drinks from the refreshment trolley.
This same anxiety and frustration is something that I see in patients sitting in a waiting room. There must be nothing worse than waiting to see your oncologist to get the results of your most recent scan and constantly being told that they’re running late.
The joy of my private clinic is that this just doesn’t happen. I’m able to schedule the appointments to give the amount of time that each patient needs. There’s no double booking. There’s no rushing to finish up other tasks when I should be in clinic. The time is set aside for us to have a proper conversation. It also means that when we meet, we know how long we have, we’re as relaxed as we can be, and I can get to you at the time that I say I get to you. It’s very rare for me to have to change these times and when that does happen, I will be having personal communication with you long before the event to reduce any anxieties or confusion. I won’t be telling you that I haven’t got your recent results because they’ve not been reported – I’ve had plenty of time to prepare for our meeting so we can make the best use of your time. I can also give you written copies of your results and a record of our consultation on the same day, so there’s no waiting around for that.
The maxim that the best things in life comes to those who wait may by true – but not when it comes to train journeys or seeing your oncologist.