Members of Ayrshire and Arran NHS Board have approved proposals to retain changes made to the Systemic Anti-Cancer Therapy (SACT) service which were made during the pandemic.

SACT is the umbrella term for anti-cancer drug treatments such as chemotherapy and immunotherapy.

The matter is now subject to approval by Michael Matheson, Cabinet Secretary for NHS Recovery, Health and Social Care, before the temporary changes can be made permanent.

Joanne Edwards, NHS Ayrshire & Arran Director of Acute Services, said: “In early 2023, it was agreed that a three-month period of consultation would take place.

"During the consultation, we shared details on the updated delivery model for SACT services with local communities so that people could give their feedback and views on the proposal to retain the changes that have been made.

“Since the conclusion of the consultation, the responses given were collated and analysed, and in August a report was submitted for board members to consider. 

“We welcome the Board members’ decision to approve the proposals to retain changes made to SACT services in Ayrshire during the pandemic and now await consideration by the cabinet secretary ahead of a final decision.

“We also thank people across Ayrshire who took the time to participate in our consultation and engagement, which has helped us to ensure we understand the impact of retaining the changes going forward.”