Patients undergoing treatment for head and neck cancer will now receive enhanced support through a new specialist service at Southend Hospital. This initiative aims to help individuals manage the lasting effects of their treatment, which can significantly impact their confidence, wellbeing, and daily life.
The clinic, developed in collaboration with patients, carers, and healthcare professionals, is one of only two of its kind in the UK. It addresses the ongoing challenges faced by survivors, such as difficulties with swallowing, speech, eating, and taste, which can emerge months or even years after treatment concludes.
Naman Julka-Anderson, a Macmillan Specialist Radiographer at Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust, played a key role in developing the clinic. He highlighted the growing need for such services as cancer survival rates improve. "People are living longer than ever after cancer treatment, which is fantastic, but we’re not always set up to support them with the long-term effects," he stated. "This clinic has been created to help people navigate those challenges, improve their quality of life and make sure they have somewhere to turn for specialist advice and support."
The service aims to provide patients with understanding and support, rather than necessarily a cure. "Many patients aren’t necessarily looking for a cure. They want someone to help them understand what’s happening, what to expect and what support is available," added Julka-Anderson. He emphasised the privilege of using his expertise to help patients regain confidence and improve their quality of life.
Recognising that some patients struggle to access specialist support after routine follow-up care ends, the clinic will also gather data to improve understanding of how treatment side effects develop over time. This information will aid research into identifying at-risk patients and inform future services nationally.
Initially, face-to-face appointments will be available at Southend Hospital, with plans to extend services to Basildon and Broomfield hospitals in the future, supporting patients across mid and south Essex.
