The current Secretary of State for Health, Steve Barclay, is honouring the appointment with us, agreed to by his predecessor, Sajid Javid, for this coming Monday the 18th of July. Although the transient nature of government at the moment makes the outcome of such a meeting uncertain, we plan to be resolute in presenting our calls for positive change and strengthening the case for Jess’ Law.
In response to Maria Caulfield’s comments following Julie Marson’s presentation of Jess’ Law in Westminster last month, additional emphasis will be placed on these points:
· There is so much to unpick from Jessica’s experience. It is a devastating story of systematic failure and lessons must be learnt.
· Jess is not a statistic (however rare, however unlikely) she is a deeply loved and desperately missed person.
· Doctors may only experience one or two cases, like Jess’, in their entire career but this is what they train for – to save lives. They must be equipped, trained and ready to act.
· Current technological systems were cited as a reason for not being able to enforce Jess’ Law. This is not an acceptable excuse to hide behind. Surely, a law is a law? This is the guidance GPs should follow. Are surgeries currently inspected?
· Yearly statutory training for GPs is essential to raise awareness regarding the less obvious signs and symptoms of cancer. Experienced oncologists should design this. It should not be optional or an expectation of charities,
· There are many unsavoury truths immerging about the mismanagement and profiteering of GP practices. This petition aims not to denigrate the thousands of dedicated professionals who feel the frustrations of the system they are caught up in. Cancer support must be prioritised and appropriately funded and staffed.
· Current campaigns encouraging people to visit their GP, should they be worried about cancer, are met with derision. Lack of face-to-face GP appointments is no longer a Covid issue it is an everyday reality.
Keep sharing 4 Jess. Thank you. Thank you.