Agenda item - Coloreactal Cancer Potential Service Change

Report of the Corporate Director, Corporate Services (copy attached).

23.1    This item was introduced by Professor Catherine Urch, Chief Medical Officer; and Jackie Groves, UHSx. Professor Urch explained the rationale for the proposed development of Worthing as a centre of excellence for colorectal cancer surgery:

·         The move will increase the volume of operations conducted at the centre and by individual surgeons; there is robust evidence to show that increased volumes lead to better patient outcomes.

·         Worthing experiences fewer emergency pressures than Brighton, making it less likely that elective surgery will need to be postponed to free capacity for emergency activity.

·         All pre and post-surgical care will continue to be delivered locally, so additional patient journeys will be minimised.

·         Length of stay in hospital will also reduce, delivering better outcomes and meaning that family and carers will make fewer journeys to support patients, even though individuals journeys may sometimes be longer.

·         Moving elective surgery from Brighton will free more capacity for emergency surgery at the Royal Sussex (RSCH).

·         There will be more timely access to cancer surgery and an improved patient experience.

23.2    Members asked questions about issues including: why it had taken so long since the merger of BSUHT and WSHT for this type of service improvement plan to be developed; how the change would impact the delivery of surgical services at the Royal Sussex; the expected flow of patients into the Worthing centre; and transport and travel implications.

23.3    Several members noted that they were in support of the plan. Members were particularly pleased that evident care had been taken to address issues around additional travel for patients and their families and carers. The Chair requested that there be an update to committee on the impact of the changes once they have been implemented.

23.4    RESOLVED – that the report be noted; and that the committee does not consider these changes to constitute a Substantial Variation in Services requiring formal scrutiny.