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Patient Funds Own Transplant After NHS Refusal
16 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Woman funded her own second transplant after NHS deemed it palliative care.
- She questions why a private insurer deemed her worth a chance.
- Advocacy groups urge government to prioritize blood cancer survival rates.
A patient who funded her own second transplant after the NHS stated palliative care was her only option has questioned the differing approaches to treatment. She highlighted her situation, stating, "Bupa are going to pay for me, I'm the same person, why do they think I'm worth a chance and the NHS don't think I'm worth a chance?" This situation underscores the critical need for individualized treatment plans.
The patient expressed a strong desire for the NHS to review its guidelines, advocating for patients to be treated as individuals rather than by rigid protocols. The NHS stated that decisions regarding repeat stem cell transplants are made between patient and clinician, guided by clinical policy. They encourage concerned patients to speak with their local clinical teams.
Leukaemia UK is urging the government to make improving survival rates for blood cancers, including AML, a priority in the upcoming National Cancer Plan. This call to action aims to ensure that all patients, regardless of their circumstances, have access to potentially life-saving treatments and better outcomes both now and for future generations.
