Minister Quayle welcomed the findings from the fourth quality assurance review of the Island’s Health Service published today, which identified a mixture of positive achievements and areas for improvement.
In October 2014, the West Midlands Quality Review Service (WMQRS) focussed on surgical specialties and care of people with cancer, including at Noble’s Hospital, at Hospice Isle of Man and in community settings.
The report recently received from WMQRS noted areas for improvement but also a range of good practice and achievements in the Surgical Specialty areas such as Acute Surgery; Urology; Ear, Nose and Throat and Audiology Services, and the Maxillo-facial Service. In Breast Care the reviewers found a comprehensive service for a small population.
The reviewers also noted areas of good practice in Cancer Service areas such as Lung Care; Gynaecological Care; Chemotherapy, and Palliative Care where reviewers recognised the excellent, integrated service between Noble’s Hospital, Primary Care and Hospice Isle of Man.
The report commends the strong links with, and support from, voluntary and third sector organisations, including those represented by The Council of Cancer Charities in the Isle of Man. The Manx Breast Cancer Support Group’s commitment to building a dedicated breast care unit is noted as a significant achievement.
The Minister said:
'Whilst recognising these achievements and good practice, the Department is focussing on the work that we have already begun to address the areas of concern the reviewers raised in aspects of eye care, colorectal care, and cancer care.'
Robust action is being taken to audit and redesign the eye service particularly in relation to waiting lists, reprioritisation of patients if their sight deteriorates, and stronger links with GPs. The consultant ophthalmologist is now the named lead for care of children with eye and vision problems.
There are three consultant oncologists – consultants specialising in cancer – two of whom are visiting consultants from England. A visiting consultant oncologist has been designated as clinical champion for Noble’s Hospital oncology services, with clear multi-disciplinary team links in place, including with local GP Cancer Leads.
Care and surgery for colorectal cancer patients will be carried out by both surgeons so that they can maintain excellent skill levels in this complex surgery.
The Department’s Medical Director has recently taken responsibility for the Cancer Plan 2012-2022. A Quality Improvement Programme Board has been put in place to give leadership and drive to the implementation of the Cancer Plan. There is a newly agreed arrangement for a dedicated cancer plan programme manager to co-ordinate improvement actions with the cancer teams.
Detailed analysis of cancer related data has been commissioned from North West Cancer Intelligence Unit to provide clear and accurate data about the incidence, waiting times and outcomes for patients. This data will help to further development the Isle of Man Cancer Plan.
Further strengthening partnerships with Macmillan across the Island will encourage and support liaison between the cancer services.
The Chair of the Council of Care Charities in the Isle of Man, Professor Howard Scarffe said:
'Continuing to work in partnership with the Department, the Council is confident that the improvements to services identified in this most recent WMQRS report can be rapidly introduced, enhancing the already high standard of care for the Island’s cancer patients and their families.'
The Minister concluded:
'It is important to remember that these peer reviews are a part of a professional process of continual improvement for the Island’s health service. Work continues apace to create a sustainable, high quality, value-for-money health service.'
A copy of the report can be downloaded here.
