The start of October marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an international campaign that highlights the risks of the disease and promotes screening and early detection of breast cancer.
Just over two years since the official opening of the Snowdrop Breast Centre on Thursday 21st September 2023, Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board is proud to mark the significant strides made to support patients with a breast cancer diagnosis.
Understanding how difficult the wait can be for patients from GP referral to first appointment, the Snowdrop Breast Centre has dramatically reduced this time, with 94% of all appointments now booked within 10–12 days of referral.
To ensure this process is as comfortable and efficient as possible for patients, their first appointment is a ‘one-stop’ clinic, enabling them to see a breast clinician, undergo radiology, and complete all required diagnostics in a single visit.
For those patients who have received a breast cancer diagnosis, treatment is usually completed within the 62-day target date, unless patients require more complex diagnostic tests.
The centralisation of the service has enabled the team to deliver gold standards of care and treatment to patients at every step of the journey. Zoe Barber, Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon and Clinical Services Specialty Director for Breast Services at CTM UHB, said: “Our multi-disciplinary team of specialised healthcare professionals work tirelessly to make every contact count for our patients.
“Reflecting on the work we have done in the last two years, to achieve sustained reduced waiting times and a streamlined and efficient process for diagnostics and treatment, has ensured patients are seen and treated quickly, compassionately and with the very best care. We remain committed to continually improving services and delivering high quality care for our community.”
The Snowdrop Centre also provides a dedicated prosthesis room for patients returning post-treatment. This service provides patients with bra and prosthesis fittings, with dedicated nurse support to aid patients in their ongoing recovery and journey post cancer treatment.
The Snowdrop Breast Centre can be supported through our Cwm Taf Morgannwg NHS Charity here: Snowdrop Breast Centre Fund – Supporting Breast Cancer Care in Cwm Taf Morgannwg – JustGiving
The Charity supports staff and patients by funding projects and services that go above and beyond what the NHS can provide.
Please contact our Charity team [email protected] to learn more about fundraising opportunities.
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