A GP from Dunmow will dedicate one day a week to improving cancer services across Essex, including Uttlesford, Harlow and Epping Forest.

Dr Sara Astbury, will begin a new role funded by Macmillan Cancer Support and will work over the next two years to find areas for improvement, such as early diagnosis and better supported care in the community.

As part of her work as a GP at Angel Lane Surgery, Dunmow, Dr Astbury will now spend one morning and one afternoon each week working alongside other GPs to enhance their knowledge and skills in treating patients with cancer. Drawing from her own experience of helping cancer patients, her aim is to improve communication between GPs and hospitals to ensure early intervention and that the best follow-up care is provided. She will work with NHS West Essex Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) Dr Astbury said: “I’m looking forward to working with my colleagues in west Essex and the Macmillan network, who have a wealth of resources and enthusiasm for improving cancer care.

“This role offers an exciting opportunity to improve services for local patients and families experiencing the difficult period that a cancer diagnosis can bring.” Dr Christine Moss, clinical director at West Essex CCG which successfully bid to bring a Macmillan GP to the area said: “This is a great opportunity to make the most of the partnerships we have created as part of our aim to commission, joined-up, high quality care.”

See: www.macmillan.org.uk or call 0808 808 00 00.