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Baby Tumour Diagnosis - Private or NHS?

Stellsybellsy110
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Hi there,

we received the unfortunate and shocking news last week that our 6 month old baby has a tumour wrapped around her Aorta and it’s likely to be cancerous. MRI was Thursday, results will be discussed by specialist on Monday, we should get some news Tuesday about a biopsy and then biopsy results could take a few weeks. Is this normal?

We were referred into the NHS system (they’ve been fab!) following initial visits and tests with a BUPA Paediatrician. Although I’m certain that my daughter’s treatment is in good hands in the NHS, should I be going private for a more speedy diagnosis? My concern with that is there not being consistency in her care.

Any advice would be gratefully received.

 

x

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    Hi there, 

    I'm so sorry that you're going through this, I have small children and I can't imagine this. 

    My dad got diagnosed with stage 4 cancer three weeks ago, the care has been disgraceful. No continuity and everything taking for ever. 

    I am a huge fan of the NHS but there are HUGE failings here, absolutely huge failings and if you can afford private care for your baby I would 100% go for it, I genuinely would. I know lots of people will disagree but I can't stress enough how quickly I would opt for private care for my girls in this situation if it was an option. 

    Biopsy results I was told take 7-10 days so to me already being told a few weeks is NOT good enough. 

    Its a very personal decision though and has to be made by you. This is just my thoughts on it. 

    Take care lovely. 

    Migi. Xxxxxxxx

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    I am so sorry; nothing could be worse for a parent than having a seriously-ill child. While I believe it is correct that you get your results quicker in private treatment it can be that there is better treatment in the NHS - but I am told (anecdotally) that it depends on the area where you live.  Here in London we have some excellent cancer treatment places.  NHS Trusts have the ability to purchase the most up-to-date equipment and their performance is scrutinised.  Perhaps you should do a bit of research on your local  hospital before making a decision.  Of course  you would sell your souls to get the best treatment for your daughter.  Since starting this post I have found some information on the subject on this website so am attaching a link for you.  My very best wishes.  Annie

    www.cancerresearchuk.org/.../private-nhs

  • Offline in reply to Annieliz

    Hi,

    I agree with Annie, I've heard it's a bit of a postcode lottery too. We're in Cardiff, two minutes from an amazing hospital. When they're actually doing something bar a few nasty nurses, they're great. The problem is with continuity and waiting times. We waited three weeks for an "urgent" biopsy just because the only doctor who could do it was on leave for a while. Then the palliative care team were fully booked and so we waited three weeks for an appointment with them. Then they had a disagreement with his GP and he refused to give the prescription they wanted for dad and we still haven't had it!! It's being "discussed". Dad needs an occupational therapist for severe neck pain he's been referred but again two weeks later no appointment as yet and even after she comes they've said it takes at least a week to put in place what she decides he needs so it's not really happening for him. I am sure privately this wouldn't happen. But yes, if you're in an area like Annie and are lucky and it's going ok so far maybe wait and see. I would sell my soul for my girls too so I feel your pain and I think with babies they are more on the ball too. But for eg my 7 year old has constipation, the waiting list for an appointment is 1 year! We waited a year. A year and my daughter was in pain and referred by A and E. I just don't know. It's great to have the option of private care if you do need it though. Bestest wishes. Xxxxxx

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    Talk to your Oncologist. 

    Most NHS cancer centres now have private clinics for patients with private insurance cover just Google the hospital name plus private care and you should find their contact details. 

    These may be controversial but it’s your baby and at least if you go to a clinic associated with an NHS cancer centre you’ll have the same experts involved. 

    If they don’t, your Oncologist will be able to point you down the right track to avoid any complications between NHS and private health care which need to be kept separate (see www.nhs.uk/.../ ).

     

    Good luck

    Dave

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