“This is a particular challenge in Wales where by 2032, 74% of permanent haematology consultants will reach the age of 60 with a shortfall in trainees to replace them,” she added.
“The crumbling NHS infrastructure that exists in Wales and a woeful IT infrastructure that lags a long way behind other centres in England are all things that compromise blood cancer patient care on a daily basis.”
She said that to improve survival rates, there must be an increase in the number of blood cancer clinical nurse specialists, as well as encouragement for more clinicians to carry out blood cancer research.
Blood Cancer UK has published an action plan for improving the situation, which includes developing the workforce, early diagnosis initiatives, reducing barriers to accessing care, and increasing access to treatments.
It said a patient’s social background and where they live were also significant factors in survival chances.
Blood Cancer UK’s Chief Executive Helen Rowntree said: “We’re confident that if the Welsh government, NHS Wales and all policymakers come together to address our recommendations in Wales, it will contribute to making the UK a leader for blood cancer treatment for people no matter who they are or where they live.”
A Welsh government spokesperson said: “A record number of staff are working in the NHS and we have continued to invest in the haematology workforce over the past decade.
“This includes a 20% increase in consultant and a 56% increase in specialty and associate specialist doctors.
“We are investing heavily in cancer services, both in terms of new equipment and facilities.”
