I am incredibly proud of the work I do in the NHS and I’m fortunate to work in a high-functioning, central London teaching hospital. Not only do I enjoy working in the NHS for the patient care I can deliver, I also get to train medical students and the next generation of oncologists. I enjoy teaching and sharing my skills and knowledge with my colleagues, junior doctors and medical students. I am often asked my opinion on complex cases by colleagues at other centres who value my experience and expertise.
Unfortunately, it can’t be ignored that the NHS is struggling to meet the demands of the population. News articles on some NHS Trusts failing to meet cancer treatment targets are published regularly. While excellent care is given in the NHS, it is under tremendous pressure. Some of the frustrations that people experience (mostly around administration, communication, appointments being changed, time to treatment) simply do not happen when being seen privately. I enjoy the ease of communication I have with the patients I see privately. I’m always happy to speak to your family members at any time at your request. I also have greater access to new technologies and treatments that are of proven benefit to give you the best care possible in our goals to cure your cancer and improve your symptoms.
Personalised and immediate attention
The key to success in cancer treatment is to be able to access the right treatment for you at the right time. Deciding on the right treatment for you quickly requires rapid access to the tests you need to make a diagnosis and stage your cancer properly. Once you’ve had the tests you need, you must see me promptly to discuss the results and finalise your personalised treatment plan. Once the plan has been agreed, private treatment facilities can start the treatment promptly.
After we’ve met to discuss any test results, my letter and copies of your results will be shared with you on the same day so that you are always up to speed with what’s happening.
My secretary, Carol Townsend, will always answer the phone if you call or get back to your message promptly. If you have a question for me, I will generally get back to you the same day.
Continuity of care
From our first appointment, I will be your point of contact for all of your treatment and follow-up. Seeing me each time means we will get to know each other very well – there will be no need to repeat your history or start from scratch at each appointment. There will be no need to repeat tests and I will have the information needed for us to make the most of our time together. When you have an appointment in my private clinic, you will see me every time and not a doctor-in-training or other allied health care professional.
State-of-the-art facilities
One of the reasons that I enjoy working in private hospitals is my ability to offer patients cutting edge treatments that are proven in improve your likelihood of cure or reduce the side effects of treatment. This could be the treatment machines (e.g. proton beam therapy or the MR-linac) or the additional technologies available to improve the treatment quality. Improving the accuracy of the treatment improves the effectiveness of the treatment and can reduce side effects.
Tailored treatment plans
Private healthcare is set up to meet your individual needs as much as possible. The increased flexibility afforded by private hospitals means that you can choose when and where you receive treatment more easily. A holistic treatment plan for cancer is more than just drug treatments and radiotherapy. Seeing me privately means that you will be able to quickly access essential parts of your treatment such as dieticians, physiotherapist and sports therapists, talking therapies and complimentary therapy – and to see them as often as you need during your treatment.
Comfort and convenience
Private hospitals are designed with your comfort and convenience in mind. Patients tell me that being surrounded by fewer people and a greater sense of space leads to a more calming experience. Refreshments provided in the waiting areas and welcoming reception staff create a sense of community and welcome.
Focus on your experience
Receiving a diagnosis of cancer can be overwhelming. From the outset, I will be focussed on making your experience as stress-free as it can be. My team can help schedule tests and appointments. We can spend as much time together as is needed to ensure you feel supported and that you understand all that is happening.
Second opinions
I am very happy to see patients who would like a second opinion. Equally, if I need to refer you for an opinion from another consultant for a medical condition other than your cancer, this can happen promptly at a time that’s convenient for you.
Privacy and discretion
The increased space in the private hospitals means that you will always have your own room if you are admitted to hospital. This means that our conversations will always be in private, with no risk of being overheard and to give you the space and quiet you need to sleep well and recover quickly.
Get in touch
Choosing to be seen privately allows you these benefits to support you through every step of your treatment and beyond. Please call and make an appointment today. Together, we can create a tailored treatment plan that meets your unique needs and ensures you receive the best possible care.