"Loss of specialist services"

As a long term Haematology and Oncology patient I have frequent phone consultations and appointments at ARI. These do not always go to plan and I have previously contacted the Macmillan Navigator Service for advice - such a valuable resource. 

I was dismayed to find out due to a lack of funding, they were disbanded several months ago. Staff and patients alike are suffering, trying to navigate the complexities of the hospital system.  In addition, I currently feel I have no one to turn to for medical/nursing advice - I have had to contact the Cancer Treatment Helpline several times as I have no point of contact in ARI. When I do manage to speak to a staff member in ARI they frequently point me towards my ‘Haematology or  Oncology Clinical Nurse Specialist’  - sadly I have neither. 

I have 2 long term conditions and a CNS would make all the difference.  Why can’t ARI provide these roles when they make such a difference to patients treatment plans? 

Once directed to the appropriate professional I am always impressed by their knowledge and care - I have no complaints about the wonderful staff of ARI, but the system is disjointed and the patients need help!!