King’s College Hospital Trust Proposes Move to Centralize Blood Cancer Care

A proposal by King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust to relocate inpatient haematology care from Princess Royal University Hospital (PRUH) in Orpington to its facility in Camberwell has sparked significant community backlash. The trust anticipates annual savings of approximately £700,000 but insists that financial considerations are not the primary motivation behind this decision.

The trust announced its intention to review the inpatient cancer care services provided at the Chartwell Ward in PRUH, which currently accommodates just 12 beds. In September, the trust initiated discussions about the proposed changes, stating that consolidating blood cancer treatments at Denmark Hill would enhance patient care.

Community members responded quickly, launching a petition that has gathered nearly 27,000 signatures in support of keeping services in Orpington. Representatives from the trust attended a meeting of Bromley Council’s Health Scrutiny Sub-Committee on November 26, 2023, to address concerns raised by patients and residents.

Julie Lowe, the trust’s Deputy Chief Executive, emphasized the proposal’s focus on improving patient outcomes, asserting, “Our primary responsibility is to offer Bromley residents the best possible care for their clinical condition.” She noted that advances in treatment for haematological cancers necessitate a shift to the more advanced facilities available in Camberwell.

The trust highlighted that the inpatient care currently provided at PRUH serves only about 144 patients annually, acknowledging the profound impact the change would have on these individuals. While the trust claims that most patients currently have access to the enhanced facilities at King’s, the proposed shift would provide more immediate access to specialized treatment.

Concerns have been raised about the travel distance for patients requiring extended inpatient treatment. Matthew Venner, a resident of Chislehurst and a stage four Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma patient, expressed anxiety over the implications of this move for his family, stating that travel to Denmark Hill would complicate visits from his children.

Dr. Roopen Arya, Clinical Director for Haematological Medicine at King’s, acknowledged the geographical challenges but reiterated the trust’s commitment to providing optimal care. “It’s a trade-off,” he stated, emphasizing the need for the best possible support for patients.

Additionally, concerns have surfaced regarding the transfer of immunocompromised patients. Dr. Carmel Curtis, Chief of Division at King’s, assured the committee that transfers would be handled with caution and only if necessary. She noted that the transfer of vulnerable patients is a common practice within London, with safeguards in place to ensure their safety.

Criticism regarding the trust’s community engagement efforts emerged during the committee meeting. Councillor Thomas Turrell labeled the trust’s participation as an “absolute nightmare,” suggesting that legal measures had to be employed to secure their attendance. Lowe countered that there had been a “breakdown in communication” but pledged to enhance engagement with the community moving forward.

The trust’s failure to effectively communicate its plans has left some community members feeling marginalized. Venner expressed frustration, stating, “The human cost does not matter to these executives. Quotas and centralization are their priorities.” He voiced his concerns about the potential loss of vital local healthcare services as the trust moves forward with its proposal.

The committee has requested that King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust return in January 2024 with a more comprehensive report and detailed data to support its proposal. In the meantime, the trust plans to develop a more robust business case, which is expected to mirror the current proposal.

As the situation evolves, the local community remains watchful, with many residents hoping for a solution that prioritizes their healthcare needs while addressing the trust’s operational goals.