Nican CHEMOTHERAPY SERVICE REVIEW

NICaN Chemotherapy Service Review

Acute Oncology Services Working Group

Terms of Reference

Acute Oncology Services (AOSs) encompasses the management of patients who:

1.) Develop severe complications following chemotherapy

2.) Develop complications as a consequence of their previously diagnosedcancer

3.) Present as emergencies with previously undiagnosed cancers.

The purpose of the group is to:

• Enable the development of AOSs across Northern Ireland

• Agree safe and effective cancer clinical pathways for patients who require urgent assessment and clinical management

• Influence the development of integrated team working and effective communication within AOSs

• Consider AOSs in light of the recommendations made in the National Chemotherapy Advisory Group Report (NCAG, Aug 09) and in conjunction with the National Confidential Enquiry into Patient Outcome and Death Report (NCEPOD, Nov2008) to ensure these standards are incorporated into the plans for the modernisation of chemotherapy services within Northern Ireland.

Underpinning Principles

The following principles will underpin the development of AOSs:

• Patients who might benefit from chemo are able to accessquality services
• Treatments which are delivered are appropriateto a patients condition
• Services are delivered safely
• Services are convenient for patients
• Patient experience is good
• Services represent good value for money

Group Chair

The group will be chaired by Mr Charlie Martyn who will be responsible for the effective running of the meeting and delivery of the above work programme.

Group Membership

Members have been chosen to reflect diverse stakeholder interests and have a responsibility to contribute and actively participate in the work programme.

Other members will be co-opted as the need arises.

Accountability and reporting arrangements

The AOS working group will report to the NICaN Chemotherapy Steering Group