People in Frome and the surrounding area can now access cancer care closer to home, thanks to a new satellite clinic run by the Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust (RUH).
The new Systemic Anti-Cancer Treatment (SACT) Centre, based at Frome Medical Centre, opened earlier this year and has already provided care for over 200 patients. SACT is the use of drugs to treat or control cancer, which includes chemotherapy, immunotherapy, hormonal therapy and targeted therapy.
Patients still receive their initial treatment at the Medlock Unit at the Dyson Cancer Centre, which is based at the RUH. Suitable patients can then continue their therapy in Frome and still receive treatment from the Medlock Unit’s team of nurses.
Mel Burcombe, RUH Matron for Haematology and Oncology, said: “We’re really pleased we’ve been able to open this satellite clinic in Frome. It means more people can receive high-quality care closer to where they live, in a setting that is calm, welcoming and local. Since launching, we’ve already increased our clinic here from two to three days a week.
“We are very grateful to the Bath Cancer Unit Support Group, who are long term supporters of the RUH. Their fundraising support has been instrumental in enabling us to bring this service to Frome.”
Feedback from patients has been really positive. Brian Melksham, who is undergoing treatment in Frome, said: “I’m very happy going to Frome. It’s much more convenient and seeing the same friendly faces from the Dyson Cancer Centre is very reassuring. The care they give is first class.”
Michael Taylor, Chairman of the Bath Cancer Unit Support Group, said: “This project would not be possible without the generosity, dedication, and community spirit of our funders and supporters. Thanks to them we’ve been able to raise funds to purchase and install all of the equipment at the Frome SACT Centre.
“Together, we are making a meaningful difference, bringing essential cancer treatment closer to home and improving the experience of patients across Frome and the surrounding area.
“A special thank you to the Trustees of the Richard Oatley Foundation for their generous grant towards our fundraising.”
The clinic forms part of ongoing work across local health partners and the wider NHS to make services more convenient, reduce travel for patients, and improve access to specialist care within community settings.
The centre benefits those from neighbouring towns and villages such as Shepton Mallet, Warminster and Westbury, as well as Frome residents.
