The Need for Extensive Care

Leukaemia, the UK’s fifth most common cancer, accounts for the third highest number of cancer-related deaths.⁤ ⁤unlike solid tumor cancers, blood cancers cannot be physically removed through surgery,⁣ necessitating ongoing and often intensive ⁤treatment. This creates unique challenges for patients, extending‍ beyond the medical ⁢aspects of the disease.

The call for worldwide ⁤HNAs stems from the recognition that‍ the burdens faced ⁣by leukaemia patients – both physical and psychological ⁢- frequently enough persist or worsen even after treatment concludes. These ⁤assessments, administered by a Clinical ⁢Nurse Specialist (CNS) with⁣ leukaemia expertise, aim to pinpoint the most pressing issues‍ patients encounter.

Following‍ the assessment, a specialist nurse or expert key worker develops a personalized care and ⁤support plan to address ‍these identified ⁢needs. This holistic approach acknowledges the mental health impact of a leukaemia diagnosis and⁤ treatment, a critical component often overlooked.

What is a Holistic Needs ⁢Assessment?

A Holistic Needs Assessment (HNA) is a structured conversation ⁤between a patient and a healthcare professional. It goes beyond simply evaluating physical symptoms ⁢to ⁢explore a wide ⁤range of needs, ⁣including:

• Physical well-being (pain, fatigue, side effects)
• Emotional and psychological health (anxiety, depression, fear)
• Social support and relationships
• Financial concerns
• Practical needs (transportation,⁣ work, housing)

The⁣ goal is to create a comprehensive understanding of the patient’s experience and develop a care plan that addresses all aspects of their well-being.

The Daily Express Campaign and Government Action

This push for wider HNA adoption aligns with the Daily Express‍ campaign advocating for all cancer patients to receive HNAs and a corresponding personal care plan.⁣ The campaign emphasizes the importance of recognizing the mental impact of a cancer ⁤diagnosis and treatment.

Leukaemia Care is specifically urging the Government to address⁢ this need ⁣within the ⁣upcoming National Cancer Plan,ensuring that all individuals diagnosed with leukaemia‍ are offered an HNA at diagnosis,during treatment,and in the post-treatment phase.

The institution ⁣stresses the unique needs of leukaemia patients and the necessity for the government to close existing gaps in care⁣ by allocating the necessary resources.