A new digital service has been introduced at Airedale NHS Foundation Trust to help prostate cancer patients receive test results more quickly.
The urology cancer team at Airedale General Hospital has launched a system that automatically sends prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test results to patients by text message, reducing the need for follow-up clinic appointments.
The system uses Robotic Process Automation technology to track when patients are due for their next PSA blood test after treatment for prostate cancer.
It then sends a text reminder asking them to arrange the test and automatically reviews the result once it is available.
If the result falls within the patient’s normal range, a text message confirming the result is sent within 24 hours.
The system then schedules the patient for their next routine review.
Any results outside the expected range are flagged for review by the clinical team.
The initiative is the first of its kind in West Yorkshire and has been funded through an innovation award from the West Yorkshire and Harrogate Cancer Alliance as part of Airedale’s wider digital transformation programme.
PSA blood tests are regularly used to monitor patients after prostate cancer treatment to check for any signs that the cancer may have returned.
Follow-up schedules vary depending on factors such as the type of treatment received and the patient’s level of risk.
Jonathan, from Ilkley, was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2022 and now has PSA tests every six months at his local GP surgery following treatment.
He said the new system could help patients receive reassurance more quickly.
“The quicker you know, the better.
“It just comes through.
"You want to be able to forget about it and just live your life.”
Helen Akhtar said the change could improve the experience for patients.
“Faster access to results will have a positive impact on relieving patient anxiety.
“It will revolutionise the way patients receive their prostate follow up results.
“Importantly it reduces the need for frequent hospital appointments, allowing men to have a life beyond their cancer follow up.”
She added that the team is already exploring other areas where automation could be used to improve cancer services.
“We’re already looking at other procedures where we can move to automation, to make our cancer service even better for our patients,”.
The system uses Blue Prism Cloud technology and has been supported by funding from the West Yorkshire and Harrogate Cancer Alliance.
Helen Ryan said the initiative is part of wider efforts to support new approaches to cancer care across the region.
“Our innovation competition provides funding to initiatives across the region that help to promote early cancer diagnosis and better care for patients.
“We are always keen to support projects which have a particular focus and are delighted to support this initiative which will bring huge benefits to prostate cancer patients.
She added that improvements to systems and processes could also help reduce pressure on services.
“Reducing waiting lists and waiting times not only increases clinic capacity and takes pressure off the system, it greatly improves the experience of cancer patients during a particularly stressful and anxious time of their lives.”
Herriots Hotel to host Wear Pink Afternoon in aid of Breast Cancer Now
Skipton Mayor to open Whinfield Bowling Club's open day
BBC Masterchef runner up to open café bar on Sheep Street
Craven College celebrates excellent Ofsted report
Popular village pub closes with immediate effect after more than seven years
Skipton pub loved by many announces closure
Skipton residents urged to put bins out earlier as hot weather continues
Skipton Colour Run raises £6,500 for academy students
Council urged to lower speed limit through Embsay and Eastby
Keighley arts centre unveils adult learning plans
Silsden gardeners get ready for Open Gardens Weekend
Solstice runners raise £25,000 for Sue Ryder
Amber heat warning issued for North Yorkshire
Brooklands school visit Skipton Hospital to learn the importance of nurses
Skipton MP Meets local councillor and residents to discuss road safety concerns at Skipton Estate
Bin crews to start earlier this week due to the heat
Still time to sign up for Solstice Saunter on Sunday
Leeds Bradford Airport to launch weekly flights to Santorini
Addingham Gala Festival set to be 'Out of this World'
Transdev partners with Yorkshire and North West Air Ambulance charities
