Pilot scheme for new 24-hour oncology helpline in Bath hailed a success.
A six-month pilot scheme for a new out-of-hours helpline for outpatients receiving chemotherapy at Bath’s Royal United Hospital (RUH) has been hailed a major success.
The service – funded by the Bath Cancer Unit Support Group.
A six-month pilot scheme for a new out-of-hours helpline for outpatients receiving chemotherapy at Bath’s Royal United Hospital (RUH) has been hailed a major success.
The service – funded by the Bath Cancer Unit Support Group (BCUSG) – has provided patients with vital, round-the-clock advice and support. But to keep the helpline running, and to fund other essential projects, BCUSG urgently needs more donations.
The RUH has seen an 84% increase in cancer therapy workloads over the past five years, due to advances in treatment, earlier diagnosis, and patients living longer. The new 24-hour oncology helpline ensures outpatients are not left without support when they need it most.
Specially trained support staff.
A team of specially trained support staff now handle calls outside of normal working hours, offering immediate advice on managing symptoms.
Caroline Gilleece, Matron and Cancer Lead Nurse at the RUH, said:
“In recent years the nursing team have managed the 24-hour telephone triage and advice service as well as caring for inpatients on the ward. Thanks to the new helpline service, all out-of-hours calls are now answered within 15 seconds. Where non-urgent advice is required, a registered nurse phones the patient back when available. This has further improved the service we can offer to patients on the ward and at home. It’s reassuring to know that the helpline is being manned and patients triaged promptly.”
About Bath Cancer Unit Support Group (BCUSG)
Founded in 1985, BCUSG is a local charity run entirely by volunteers. Over the years, the group has raised millions of pounds to provide equipment and facilities that go above and beyond NHS budgets. Every penny donated helps improve the experience of cancer patients treated at the RUH and its outreach units.