Specialist cancer unit eases A&E pressures
A specialist unit providing rapid care for cancer patients who become unwell during treatment has marked its first anniversary — having assessed over 3,000 people in its first year.
The Cancer Assessment Unit at St Bartholomew’s Hospital opened on 22 April 2024 to offer same-day assessments for patients experiencing treatment-related symptoms such as infection, pain, or complications from chemotherapy or radiotherapy.
The unit aims to improve the speed and quality of care for this vulnerable group — while avoiding visits to busy emergency departments.
In its first year, the service has had a significant impact. An average of 266 patients are seen each month, with only 20% needing hospital admission. Most are safely managed on an outpatient basis.
Doctors say this has reduced unnecessary hospital stays and eased pressure on other hospital services across the Barts Health group.
Dr Michael John Devlin, clinical director of acute care at Barts Cancer Centre, said: "This service is a major step forward in caring for people with cancer. Faster access to specialist teams means symptoms are treated earlier, avoiding unnecessary hospital stays."
A personalised alternative to A&E
Cancer patients often have weakened immune systems and face higher risks of complications. Before the CAU opened, many had no option but to attend A&E, facing long waits and potential infection exposure.
The CAU provides dedicated specialist care which is often faster and more personalised to the needs of this patient group. Located on the 7th floor of the King George V building, it is staffed by oncology specialists and includes a 24-hour telephone advice line, giving patients direct access to clinical support and triage before attending in person.
The permanent facility followed a successful temporary unit set up during the Covid-19 pandemic to protect vulnerable patients.
Designed with patients, now a model for others
The CAU was co-designed with patients, including the late Leandra O’Sullivan, who helped shape the space before her death in 2023. Her input — including natural light, calming colours, and thoughtful layout — created a welcoming and reassuring environment.
"Having access to a specialist team who know your history makes all the difference,” she said during planning. "It helps take away the fear of being unwell during cancer treatment."
Since opening, the CAU has attracted interest from across the NHS. Several hospital teams from London have visited to learn from its model, now seen as a benchmark for effective cancer assessment care.
Dr Devlin added: “This success would not have been possible without the exceptional commitment of the nursing, clinical, and management teams. Their expertise and compassion have shaped the unit into what it is today.
"We thank everyone involved and look forward to another impactful year ahead."
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