CANCER patients across the South Eastern Trust are avoiding unnecessary trips to hospital emergency departments thanks to a specialist same-day care unit at the Ulster Hospital.
The Same Day Emergency Care Unit, based within the Macmillan Unit, provides rapid assessment and treatment for oncology and haematology patients who become unwell because of their cancer or its treatment, allowing many to receive specialist care without attending the Emergency Department.
Open weekdays from 8am to 6pm, the unit is staffed by a team of doctors, nurses and support staff. Patients also have access to a dedicated telephone helpline, with experienced nurses providing advice and arranging same-day appointments where appropriate.
Patients who are critically unwell or experiencing a medical emergency are still directed to the Emergency Department when necessary.
Newtownards patient Sarah Milliken, who is receiving treatment for leukaemia, said the service had made a significant difference.
“I have had to start treatment twice because of infections and the team here have been marvellous. Whenever you ring, there is always somebody there to listen and assess what is wrong. If they feel you need to come in, they arrange everything for you.
“The care has been absolutely amazing. I cannot thank them enough. This Unit makes such a difference, especially for your family at home who are worried about what is happening. Knowing you can speak directly to someone who understands your condition is incredibly reassuring.”
Macmillan Unit deputy Sister Caroline Johnston said the service was established to provide faster access to specialist care while reducing the risk of vulnerable patients being exposed to infection.
She said: “Many of our patients are immunocompromised because of their cancer treatment. By assessing and treating them within the Macmillan Unit, we can often prevent them from having to attend the Emergency Department where they may be exposed to infectious illnesses.
“Our patients know the team and we know them. That continuity of care is incredibly important. They are being looked after by healthcare professionals who understand their diagnosis, their treatment and the potential complications they may experience.”
Every patient is given details of the dedicated helpline at the start of their treatment. Calls are assessed by an experienced nurse, who determines whether advice can be given over the phone or if the patient should attend the unit for further assessment.
Caroline continued: “If a patient needs to be seen, they are invited to attend the Same Day Emergency Care Unit where they are assessed by one of our doctors.
“Depending on their condition, they may receive treatment and return home the same day or, if necessary, be admitted to hospital. We follow evidence-based pathways for conditions such as Neutropenic Sepsis to ensure patients receive prompt treatment without delay.”
Caroline added that feedback from patients has been overwhelmingly positive.
“The service gives patients reassurance that expert advice is only a phone call away. They know they can contact us if they have concerns and receive specialist support quickly. We are very proud of the care we provide and of the difference this service is making to patients and their families every day.”
