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Transferring cancer care from Spain to UK

Votisit1ffe94a
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Hello,

I hope someone will know the answers to my questions as I'm begining to worry a little bit about returning to the UK from Spain after having had Stage 3 er +++, a mastectomy, chemo, radiotherapy and am now on Ribiciclib and Letrozole.  I started Letrozole in April and Ribociclib in August.  Currently going every month to the hospital to get blood work done and pick up the ribociclib but I also have my house on the market as I want to return to the UK which is my place of birth.

I'm worried about the continuation of the drugs I´m taking and wonder what I would have to do to make sure that there are no gaps in being able to get hold of the drugs I need.

Would I be able to move back and just make an appointment to see my local Dr and they will prescribe what I need, or should I make a special trip back to register with a Dr first? all the documents of my treatment are of course in Spanish.

  • Hi Votisit1ffe94a,

    Thank you for getting in touch with us and welcome to the online community.  My name is Adrienne and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists at Macmillan.

    If you have been living in Spain and do not have a UK GP, you would have to register with one as soon as you return and make an appointment.  Most surgeries have the option to register online.  However you will need to provide proof that you are eligible for free NHS healthcare by proving ‘ordinary residence’.  This means you will be living in the UK on a lawful and settled basis (NHS).  You do this by providing at least 2 forms of ID and may be asked some questions.  You can read more about the types of ID required here.

    The GP would then refer you to the breast cancer team at the hospital to review your medical records and for them to agree to continue treatment with the ribociclib and letrozole.     

    You will have to get your medical records professionally translated into English as accurate records are crucial for your treatment planning.  This ensures that the UK doctors can fully understand your diagnostic reports such as scans and biopsies as well as treatment history.  So they can provide the right care going forward.  It would also be very helpful to get a letter from your Spanish doctor explaining your diagnosis and treatment as well as providing a list of the medications you take, including the doses/strengths.   

    Ask your Spanish doctor for a 3-month supply of your medication to allow for the time it will take for your GP to refer you to hospital and for you to be seen.  Take the medication in your hand luggage when flying and keep it in its original packaging along with the letter from your doctor and paper copy of prescription.  Just to avoid any issues at customs. 

    I hope this information was helpful and that your move back to the UK goes smoothly.

    Take care and best wishes,

    Adrienne

    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 email us. 

    Ref:  AMc/AT

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