A new satellite cancer treatment centre has recently opened in Frome, Somerset, providing much-needed local access to systemic anti-cancer therapy. Since opening earlier this spring, the Frome SACT Centre, operated by the Royal United Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (RUH), has already treated 200 patients.
This convenient new clinic offers patients the ability to receive cancer care without the lengthy journey to Bath, reducing travel time and stress. Formerly, residents of Frome faced a daily round trip of around 30 miles for treatment at the RUH’s Dyson Cancer Centre — roughly 40 minutes by car or over an hour by public transport.
Patient Brian Melksham praised the centre, saying, “I’m very happy going to Frome. It’s much more convenient and seeing the same friendly faces from the Dyson Cancer Centre is very reassuring. The care they give is first class.”
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The clinic also serves neighbouring communities including Shepton Mallet, Warminster, and Westbury, helping to ease the burden on patients who previously had to travel even further for treatment.
Support from the community has played a vital role in establishing the centre. The Bath Cancer Unit Support Group led fundraising efforts, enabling the purchase and installation of critical equipment needed for treatment.
Mel Burcombe, RUH matron for haematology and oncology, emphasised the impact: “We’re thrilled to offer high-quality care closer to home in a calm, welcoming environment. The centre has expanded from two to three clinic days per week since opening, reflecting strong demand. We’re grateful to the Bath Cancer Unit Support Group for their essential fundraising support.”
Michael Taylor, Chairman of the Bath Cancer Unit Support Group, added, “This project showcases the generosity and community spirit of our funders and supporters. Thanks to them, patients across Frome and surrounding areas now have improved access to vital cancer treatments. We also appreciate the generous grant from the Trustees of the Richard Oatley Foundation that made this possible.”
The Frome SACT Centre exemplifies the commitment to patient-centered care by bringing specialised cancer services closer to where people live, improving the treatment experience for many in Somerset.