Newcastle’s blood cancer experts have received the Myeloma UK Clinical Service Excellence Programme Accreditation (Myeloma UK CSEP Accreditation) from Myeloma UK.
The Clinical Service Excellence Programme aims to implement best practice standards in centres across the country and looks at eight core areas including;
- Patient experience
- Multidisciplinary team working
- Awareness and education
- Treatment and support care planning
- Testing and diagnosis
- Research and clinical trials
- End of life care
- Information and support
The myeloma team, based at the Northern Centre for Cancer Care at the Freeman Hospital were recognised for their commitment to providing superior treatment to myeloma patients, and helping to make improvements in the wider healthcare community.
Passion and dedication
The award was presented to staff by Myeloma UK Chief Executive Rosemarie Finley, who commented on the team’s passion and dedication to providing the best possible care to their patients.
Professor Graham Jackson, consultant haematologist at the Newcastle Hospitals said: “We have an incredible team here in Newcastle who all work very closely together and it’s wonderful to receive national recognition.
“One of the most important factors here though is our fantastic patients, they are why we are here and we should never forget that.
“We always want to continue to improve and do the best we can for our patients, and I’m pleased that some of them were able to come and join us today as we celebrate. I’m proud to accept this award on behalf of our outstanding myeloma team.”
Third most common blood cancer
Myeloma is the third most common form of blood cancer. It originates in the bone marrow and currently affects around 17,500 people in the UK.
The Newcastle Hospitals team run a myeloma specialist clinic at the Freeman Hospital and see around 50 patients each week. The team of consultants and specialist nurses work closely with a social worker to help support patients during their treatment.
Whilst treatable, myeloma is not yet curable, treatment aims to control myeloma, relive symptoms and improve quality of life.
Suzanne Renwick, healthcare professional projects manager, Myeloma UK said: “Being presented with the Myeloma UK CSEP Accreditation is a considerable achievement and shows that the Newcastle Hospitals is dedicated to providing excellent treatment and care.
“The Myeloma UK CSEP Accreditation demonstrates the gold standard of myeloma care.”
