Abstract
Objectives: To assess the potential impact of new health guidelines on prostate cancer services within one NHS Trust and consider alternative follow-up of stable patients with advanced disease.
Patients and methods: Patients diagnosed within a one-year period were identified. Incidence and number treated by each modality were found. Retrospective cost analysis for those receiving hormonal therapy was assessed. Current performance was assessed against the 2005 prostate Cancer Plan targets with a projected estimate of resources necessary to achieve the targets.
Results: 152 patients were newly diagnosed with prostate cancer where 54.5% received hormonal treatment, utilising 8 full consultant clinics per year and costing £400,000 and 1.5 nurse specialist sessions were needed per week. Only 35% of patients received their first treatment within two months. Estimates suggest than an additional 30 annual consultant clinics are required to meet national targets and deliver a quality service.
Conclusion: Substantial reconfiguration of local hospital and primary and care facilities will be needed to deliver targets and a high quality service in accordance with the NHS Cancer Plan. Primary care follow-up of stable patients can free resources.