Moving to the UK - How to do transfer my immunotherapy treatments

FormerMember
FormerMember
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-28yo, female, Stage 3a melanoma

-malignant mole removed, sentinel lymph node removed and biopsied, returned positive for cancer cells

I am preparing to move from the United States to London by the end of this year.  I am in the process of obtaining my work visa and should have that in less than 2 months.  In the meantime I am beginning immunotherapy (Keytruda) here in the states. In addition to the NHS my work place will have private health insurance that will cover pre-existing health conditions.

My Keytruda treatment is administered every 3-weeks over the course of 1 year, without disruption.  In the next two months prior to receiving my visa I need to prepare to ensure I can pickup treatment immediately upon landing in the UK, I am nervous I won't be able to land, establish myself with a GP, get transferred to a specialist and restart my treatment within such a tight timeline.  Does anyone know where a foreigner would begin to get confidence this can transferred?  Is there anyway I can see the NHS or have them review my case prior to moving?

Thank you

  • Hi  and welcome to the Online Community, although I am so sorry to see you finding us.

    Interesting questions that someone may have answer for but I see you have also posted your questions to our Nurse Team, most likely they will be able to give you the best advise.

    The Community is organised into various support groups so can I direct you to our Melanoma group as this will connect you with people walking the treatment journey in the UK.

    Follow the link I've created above then choose ‘click to join' on the page that opens.

    You can then introduce yourself and post questions selecting '+New' or '+' (depending on the device you're using) and join in with existing discussions by clicking on 'reply'. 

    It’s always good to talk, so can I highlight the Macmillan Support Line on 0808 808 00 00...... not sure about the international number? This service covers Emotional Support, Practical Information. Clinical Information, Financial Support and Work Guidance mostly open 8.00 to 8.00

    Our Online Information and Support Section  is a good place to find information covering cancer diagnosis, treatments and pages covering most types of cancers.

    All the very best.

    Mike - Thehighlander

    It always seems impossible until its done - Nelson Mandela

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    Mike (Thehighlander)

    It always seems impossible until its done - Nelson Mandela

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