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.