I am currently on treatment for anaplastic cancer stage 4C by immune therapy (Kertuda) and target therapy (Entrictnib). I am moving to UK.
Q1: are these two treatments available under public healthcare and how can enroll in?
Q2: what documents do I need to bring and is there a specific form?
Hi Medo,
This is just a short message to let you know that I have moved your question over from our Ask an Information and Support Adviser forum to our Ask a Nurse forum instead.
One of our qualified Cancer Information Nurse Specialists will be along as soon as they can to answer your query.
If you need any additional help or support in the meantime, don't forget you can always reach our various support teams by contacting the Macmillan Support Line on freephone 0808 808 00 00. They're open from 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week.
All the best,
Matthew
Macmillan Online Community Team
Hi Medo.
Thanks for getting in touch and welcome to our online community. My name is Sherrye and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.
I’m sorry to hear you are on treatment for stage 4C anaplastic cancer and the drugs you are currently having are Keytruda and Entrectinib. I understand you are moving to the UK and naturally want to continue your treatment.
Navigating healthcare when moving to another country can be worrying as of course you’ll want to avoid any delays in continuing your treatment. Firstly, you will need to register with a General Practitioner (GP) as they are the first contact if you have a health problem. GP’s can treat many conditions, give health advice and refer you to other NHS services such as cancer care.
It would be helpful to bring copies of your medical notes with you so the GP can upload these to the system and learn more about you and your health. Please be aware that depending on where you are relocating from you may need another paperwork. This link may be helpful.
The GP can then refer you to the oncology department at the local NHS hospital and you will be accepted under the care of a cancer specialist for the type of cancer you have. They will then do a full assessment of you, the cancer and any treatment you’ve had already and discuss what treatment can be offered to you.
Cancer treatments for stage 4C anaplastic cancer can be different in the UK so you may not be offered the same regimen you are currently having. Cancer drugs that are offered under the NHS have to be licensed following clinical trials and a review process before being available on the NHS.
You may find it helpful when the time comes to prepare some questions before you meet the specialist, asking about your treatment options and ongoing care plan.
Some people find it helpful to talk things through, if this would be helpful for you do give us a call on the Macmillan Support Line. The number to use from outside the UK is +44 207 091 2230.
I hope this information helps. Please feel free to get back in touch if you want more information or support.
Best wishes,
Sherrye H,
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), send us an email or contact us through webchat.
Ref SH/KHa
