Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 09:00 - 17:30
Coronavirus FAQs
Questions about cover for coronavirus? Read our FAQs and find out what our policies can do for you. If you would like to contact us, please note we are currently only available 09:00 to 17:30 Monday to Friday due to reduced operational capacity. Thank you.
25 August 2015 10:57
Over 24,000 cancer patients were not tested, the data suggests
Thousands of cancer patients are missing out on targeted treatments due to a lack of funds, claims a charity.
Cancer Research UK estimates more than 24,000 molecular diagnostic tests were not carried out on eligible patients across England in 2014.
The tests can help doctors choose more personalised treatments that may improve survival chances for their patients.
Lung and bowel cancer
Around 16,000 eligible patients with lung and bowel cancer were not offered tests last year, the charity said.
Cancer Research UK claims a quarter of these could have been given targeted treatments, meaning an estimated 3,500 lung and bowel cancer patients missed out on medications that may have changed the course of their disease.
No dedicated funding is currently available for molecular diagnostic testing, something which the charity says is the main reason for missed tests.
Poor awareness of targeted treatments and testing also plays a part.
It is estimated that a further £13 million is needed to meet the demand for tests and make sure the services are kept up to date.
Travel plans
Cancer travel insurance gives people undergoing treatment for cancer the peace of mind needed to enjoy holidays abroad.
It can cover the cost of lost medication, and provides access to 24/7 emergency assistance.
Routine testing
Molecular diagnostic tests are routinely available in other countries around the world, but not in the UK.
Professor Peter Johnson, chief clinician at Cancer Research UK, which demonstrated how such testing could be introduced two years ago, says the NHS continues to lag behind its counterparts when it comes to innovative care.
He wants all eligible patients to be tested to see if they could benefit from new types of treatment.
A national commissioning structure for the tests features in the new cancer strategy for England, which was announced earlier in the summer.
09 March 2020
Move over hot cross buns and chocolate eggs, there's a whole world of Easter treats out there. Here are some alternative Easter foods from around the world.
[more...]
Forget egg hunts and bunnies, Easter's done a little bit differently in these corners of the world. Here five alternative Easter celebrations.
28 February 2020
Keep your carbon footprint in check and travel green with our eco-friendly travel tips.
25 February 2020
For true carefree travel, decide on a destination that's kinder to the planet...
20 February 2020
Travel into the future and not just through time-zones, with destinations shaping urban living.
National Anthem Day falls on the 3rd March, so what better excuse is there to delve into into the world of music and motherland?
Discover five alternative places to get down on one knee this leap year.
Two-wheels are better than none. Check out our favourite cities best explored from a saddle.
04 February 2020
Make your phone the perfect travel companion for the new year...
Bohemian boulevards and ornate opera houses await away from the Six Nations action.
Kite Flying Day falls on 8th February. What better time is there to plan your next trip through the skies?
10 February 2020
With Ferris Wheel Day on 14th February, there's never been a better excuse to enjoy a foreign skyline.