In an exciting development for cancer and blood disease patients in East Yorkshire, officials have announced the expansion of a crucial emergency service to the southern part of the Humber region.

The NHS Humber Health Partnership is set to enhance the triage service at the Queen's Centre Acute Assessment Unit (QCAAU) located at Castle Hill Hospital in Cottingham. This 24-hour service will begin staffing immediately, aimed at guiding patients with acute needs to prevent unnecessary hospital visits or admissions in Scunthorpe, Grimsby, and Hull.

Sister Kirsty McDonagh, the manager of the unit, emphasized the significance of this expansion, stating it will help patients receive "the right care in the right place at the right time." She elaborated on the triage process for individuals undergoing oncology and haematology treatments, facilitating easier access to necessary care.

With this new setup, patients will have a centralized point for accessing services from both Hull University Teaching Hospitals and Northern Lincolnshire and Goole Hospitals. The goal is to alleviate the burden on emergency departments while providing timely and tailored care.

Personal stories highlight the service's impact: Amy Richards, a 39-year-old who has benefited from the QCAAU after her breast cancer diagnosis ten years ago, praised the tailored support she received. "The staff here understand my history; they've treated me swiftly and effectively throughout my journey," she shared, now celebrating her cancer-free status.

Patients who qualify for this enhanced triage will receive detailed contact information as soon as they begin their treatment, ensuring they have immediate access to the specialized care they need.

This initiative is a significant step forward in improving cancer care in the region, streamlining access to critical services and enhancing patient well-being.