What steps are being taken to ensure all pancreatic cancer patients in Wales are considered for pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy at the point of diagnosis?
Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy is available for the treatment of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, which may be caused by a range of conditions. Data on the number of prescriptions for pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy dispensed in primary care is available but it cannot be differentiated by clinical indication and does not include prescriptions dispensed in hospitals.
The Wales Cancer Network is supporting the development and dissemination of advice on Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy to primary and community care staff, as well as hospitals and specialist cancer centres. In addition, Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy is included in the recently developed National Pancreatic Optimal Pathway. This is a nationally agreed pathway of care for people with pancreatic cancer; part of the wider Single Cancer Pathway programme. It has been developed by pancreatic cancer specialists but supported by the wider cancer community, including those in primary and community care. It will encourage access to timely but high quality care, where patients are supported in the right way across the cancer pathway.