SOUTH Ayrshire's MSPs have encouraged residents to get involved in an NHS Ayrshire and Arran cancer therapy consultation.

The plans could see all anti-cancer treatments including chemo and immunotherapy moved permanently to Crosshouse, which has raised questions from South Ayrshire residents.

Alterations were made to the health board’s Systemic Anti-Cancer Therapy (SACT) services on a temporary basis in 2020 at the start of the covid-19 pandemic with a consultation to keep the changes open until May 19.

The service includes all anti-cancer drug treatments, such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy and saw the health board move all treatments from Ayr Hospital – using a separate bespoke unit for day case chemotherapy and making use of the inpatient cancer ward at Crosshouse Hospital.

Commenting on the consultations, Ayr MSP Siobhian Brown, said: "I understand that people are concerned about services moving from Ayr Hospital to Crosshouse on a permanent basis but this is about delivering the best cancer care possible.

"It is important that services change and adapt as our communities grow. And it's vital we have these conversations now.

"That's why I would encourage everyone across the NHS Ayrshire and Arran health board area to get involved in this consultation, whether that be in the form of the survey or at the in-person and online meetings.

"The NHS need to hear your views to understand how you would like anti-cancer treatments to be delivered.

"It's important to hear from everyone including those who've used the service. In that way health care can accurately reflect a broad and inclusive range of perspectives, which meet the needs of the entire community.

Read More: NHS Ayrshire and Arran launch consultation on cancer service changes

"The emphasis here being on high quality, specialist care for those in need it most.

"Services were changed during the pandemic and I'm led to believe they've been well received. I will be keen to take part in discussions myself and I will look forward to seeing the results of the consultation."

Brian Whittle MSP added: “It’s understandable that any proposal like this will be a cause of concern, particularly for those faced with a longer journey for treatment, but ultimately the deciding factor must be which option delivers the best possible patient care. 

"I have had discussions with NHS Ayrshire & Arran about these arrangements before, and I’m told the feedback from both patients and staff is very positive.

"These changes were initially made in response to the Covid-19 pandemic but those using the services seem to have found the facilities more comfortable.

"The biggest consequence of this change is likely to be longer travel times for patients in the more southerly parts of South Ayrshire, like Girvan.

"For me, this only reinforces my view that there is a real need for investment in better road and rail links in Ayrshire, particularly along the A77, which is long overdue for an upgrade, particularly South of Ayr.

"While I’m confident that NHS Ayrshire & Arran will make their final decision based on what’s best for those receiving cancer treatment, I’d encourage everyone with an interest in this issue to take part in the consultation and ensure their views are heard.”

Alongside the survey, in person and online meetings will be held across the three-month consultation period with details available online closer to the time.

To access the survey and documents, visit www.jointheconversation-nhsaaa.co.uk.