Hello
I am researching prostate cancer treatments for my partner ahead of seeing a surgeon and a radiology team.
My partner could be eligible for Focal Therapy but I don't think that is offered where we live (near Bradford).
My question is, can you ask to have treatment at a different NHS Trust where it is offered?
NB I appreciate that Focal Therapy availability is less common and that seeking it may mean we have to wait longer.
Thanks Caroline
Dear Caroline,
Thank you for getting in touch with us. I’m Alison, one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists who works on the support line here at Macmillan.
It’s only natural to want to make sure you’re accessing the treatment that’s best for your husband.
Unfortunately, there are only a few centres in the UK who currently offer focal therapy. However, you can ask to be referred to them in the NHS or you can also access these services privately.
Your husband’s consultant will be able to discuss all the options available and what treatment will offer the best outcomes. It’s quite common with prostate cancer to be offered more than one treatment plan. You may want to prepare with some questions to help make sure you have as much information as possible to make decisions about treatment.
If you’d like to talk this through in more detail, please don’t hesitate to give our support line a call.
Take care,
Alison,
Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.
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