Haematology team recognised for clinical service excellence by Myeloma UK

The Haematology team at the Trust have scooped a national award for their commitment to patients living with myeloma. 

On Friday, they were presented with the Myeloma UK Clinical Service Excellence Programme (CSEP) Award in recognition of their outstanding care and dedication to patients living with the incurable blood cancer. 

The team were praised for their efforts to improve patients’ quality of life, eagerness to listen to their needs, as well as their commitment to raising the bar for treatment and providing compassionate care.

Dr Pratap Neelakantan, Consultant Haematologist and Myeloma lead at Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trusr, said: “Our myeloma service is extremely proud to have received this award. This recognition is a testament to the team’s dedication, hard work, and unwavering spirit. Our engagement with patient leaders and effective communication have been crucial in achieving this milestone.

"This award symbolizes not just our achievements, but the strength and unity of our haematology department. Here's to many more milestones ahead."

Rhys Owens, Clinical Practice Services Senior Projects Officer at Myeloma UK, said: “Myeloma is a challenging cancer which keeps coming back and can be really difficult to cope with both physically and mentally, so we were hugely impressed with the hospital’s efforts to ease patients’ burden.

“For instance, the team created a prehabilitation programme to help patients get as fit as possible before a stem cell transplant. This not only prepares them for what’s to come but gives them the best chance of a smooth recovery.   

“Staff also make sure their patients get access to as many life-changing clinical trials as possible and provide crucial information and support to anyone considering or already taking part in a trial. Seeing everyone at Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust go above and beyond for people with myeloma is truly inspiring.”