COLUMN: More than Macmillan nurses

Many people talk to me about the Macmillan nurses who supported them or their family member after a diagnosis of cancer.

I think it’s true to say that most people automatically associate the name Macmillan with nurses. But I’m happy to say that we have a wide range of professionals that support people in Rotherham.  From our well known Macmillan information and support service at the hospital, our Macmillan advocacy service in the town centre and our new addition, a Macmillan GP for the town.

I recently met Dr Jason Page who is based at the Thorpe Hesley Surgery, he started as the Macmillan GP for Rotherham in August last year.

Macmillan GPs are practising GPs who devote an average of a day per week to work with Macmillan to make improvements to local cancer care. Jason told me why he wanted to join the Macmillan team:  

“I became interested in cancer care, and soon realised that with the support of Macmillan this was an area I could really make a difference in.

“A recent diagnosis of cancer in my family brought home that almost everyone is affected by cancer.  It got me thinking how can GPs improve the support they give people with cancer?

“Cancer is the one diagnosis that GPs find most difficult to deal with because there’s such a range of outcomes and so many unknowns.

“As a Macmillan GP it’s my job to talk to colleagues across Rotherham and make them aware of some of the fantastic Macmillan services that are available, as well as trying to understand some of the challenges they may face.

“I’m working with 30 GP practices in the town to try and improve the experience of our patients with a cancer diagnosis.

“I’ve been a GP for almost 20 years and really believe the holistic nature of general practice is well placed to provide excellence in cancer care and support.”

I’m absolutely thrilled we’re able to fund services like this. We wouldn’t be able to do it without the help of people as we rely on 98% of public donations. If you would like to fundraise or volunteer, please contact me on 07710 307050 or email [email protected]