Last week we met again with experts in Cancer Services, Primary Care and GP policy from the Department of Health and Social Care. The meeting allowed us to discuss the principle of Jess’s Law, once again.
As many of you are aware, Jess’s Law is legislation requesting after a patient has contacted a GP surgery three times about a condition/symptom their case is red-flagged and set procedures followed, including a referral to a specialist. This should not be a tokenistic exercise i.e., a simple, inconclusive blood test and the patient given an all clear. The investigations need to be thorough and conclusive.
Unfortunately, only too often, unsubstantiated diagnoses are made in Primary Care. 3/10 of all patients receive an incorrect diagnosis (not necessarily cancer related) following a GP consultation.
We are not here to criticise GPs despite the obvious dereliction of duty in Jess’ case. We understand the pressure placed upon under funded surgeries. We appreciate there are staff shortages. We would like to support future positive change. In additional to statutory annual cancer awareness training we would like to see a cancer specialist in all GP practices. Currently, many surgeries have a dedicated diabetes specialist and one for asthma but not a cancer expert. When 1 in 2 of us will have cancer in our lifetime that feels extraordinary.
Amongst discussions about how to practically implement Jess’s Law, we discussed GP contracts and formalising training. We were told that The Secretary of State for Health, Steve Barclay, who has met us on two previous occasions, feels invested in Jess’ case. We hope he will attend future monthly meetings.
Following my last update this petition received another 1000 signatures in just one week. Thank you so much for your support. Jess’ campaign is still relevant and we will continue to fight in her memory and for the countless other young people who have lost their lives.
You are all making a difference.
The link shows an ITV news interview discussing the premise and importance of Jess’s Law.