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Hospital named centre of excellence for blood cancer treatment

The myeloma service at The James Cook University Hospital has been accredited as a centre of excellence.

Myeloma is the third most common type of blood cancer. It originates in the bone marrow and currently affects around 17,500 people in the UK.

It is treatable, but not curable. Treatment aims to control the myeloma, relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. 

The Myeloma UK Clinical Service Excellence Programme (CSEP) accreditation recognises the Middlesbrough hospital’s commitment to providing superior treatment to myeloma patients.

The service at South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust was assessed on eight areas covering the whole patient journey. 

It received particular praise for its excellent patient feedback and for the level of information and support provided to patients. 

Patients said the care they received was “second to none” and described the staff as being “really supportive and caring”. 

Consultant haematologist Raymond Dang said it was a fantastic achievement following a number of years of hard work:  “We have been working hard to improve myeloma services for our patients. It has been a real privilege to go on that journey with our patients and to work closely with Myeloma UK.

“I would just like to thank everyone involved, especially all the staff on the haematology unit – we could not do it without you!”  

Suzanne Renwick, healthcare professional projects manager for Myeloma UK said: “Being presented with the Myeloma UK CSEP accreditation is a considerable achievement and shows that James Cook is providing to providing excellent treatment and care. 

“The Myeloma UK CSEP accreditation demonstrates the gold standard of myeloma care.”

Professor Caroline Wroe, Deputy Clinical Director for NIHR Clinical Research Network North East and North Cumbria said: “This is a fantastic achievement for the team and demonstrates just what South Tees can offer to myeloma patients. 

“May I offer my personal congratulations to all staff who work with patients receiving treatment for myeloma.”