Focal Therapy for Prostate Cancer
Patients should not have to travel hundreds of miles to access potentially life-changing treatment.
I asked the Scottish Government about the provision of focal therapy for prostate cancer patients, including whether dedicated NHS treatment centres could be established in Scotland.
The minister acknowledged emerging evidence that focal therapy may be as effective as standard treatment for some patients, while carrying a lower risk of side effects. She confirmed that NHS boards are expected to consider how new treatments can be introduced in line with clinical guidance.
I will continue pressing for patients in NHS Forth Valley and across Scotland to have access to the most effective treatments without the additional burden of travelling to specialist centres in England.
