Late effects and special interest group Somerset

• Previously there were information and support groups for radiographers seeing people during treatment, but nothing for post treatment.
• Patients were bouncing between primary and secondary care having pointless tests and getting no diagnosis.
• Allied Health Professional roles were quite isolated and there was minimal guidance and protocols.

• Late effects service – this was originally funded by Macmillan, set up to support patients manage their symptoms post treatment. The aim was to improve the service.
• Chairs special interest group - gives healthcare professionals working in post radiotherapy treatment a support network. Allied Health Professionals can share experiences and discuss setting up similar services in their area.

   

Late effects service

• Helped patients to manage symptoms and access services that they wouldn’t normally be able to access.
• Questionnaires about bowel symptoms were taken at the start and end of treatment.
  

Special interest group

• Professionals networked and shared information.

Late effects service

• Patients aren’t having to repeat their story every time.

• Symptoms are managed and unnecessary appointments are prevented.

• Improved quality of life for patients.

Special interest group

• The special interest group has now grown to 100 people.

• Knowledge sharing has allowed professionals to improve on care and patient outcomes.

• To gather more data once the regional service has been set up.
• Radiographer in each centre will develop a proper post treatment service which started in September 2022.
  
  

We support Allied Health Professionals in their roles.

You may find the following resources useful:

• resources for Allied Health Professionals

• cancer rehabilitation pathways guidance

• resources to support patients during treatment

• resources to support patients after treatment

• learning and development opportunities.

Additional resources can be found in our news and resources section.