Discussion
Global pandemics, such as the coronavirus, SARS or MERS, present a unique and diverse challenge for healthcare world-wide. Whilst on one hand the treatment and care of patients with the virus is vital, this has to be balanced against the needs of patients suffering from other life-threatening illnesses. In order to achieve the optimal balance of these opposing forces, hospitals and care providers need to collaborate and pool resources in order to be as prepared as possible for the potential future impact.
This review discusses the efforts employed to reduce transmission and how limitations with resources and the need for treatment prioritisation can be managed in order to allow those women with gynaecological cancers access to the care they require and deserve. It also highlights where we can afford to offer additional therapies in place of surgical management where the risks to the patient and public health are perceived too great.
Consideration must be given to planning for the months following the peak of the pandemic as there is inevitably a backlog of patients requiring urgent surgery who will need to be prioritised as soon as practicable. For all women going through the cancer pathway it is an extremely stressful time, however having to go through it during this time of uncertainty and fear is likely to cause significant emotional distress and this needs to be appreciated by the attending healthcare professionals and support provided to the patient and their families where possible. The importance of keeping patients updated with their care and involved in the discussions surrounding their treatment cannot be understated.
As a healthcare organisation, the NHS has been pushed to its limits to effectively manage the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. All guidance we have to date is reliant on small studies and expert advice and further research is required to provide evidenced-based guidance to improve preparedness for any future resurgence or alternative pandemic.