A woman in Wales, Rachel Davies, is facing a devastating situation as she battles secondary breast cancer. Despite knowing that there is a drug called Enhertu that could potentially extend her life, she is unable to access it due to it not being approved for NHS funding in Wales, England, and Northern Ireland. This drug could offer patients like Rachel an additional six months of life on average. Unfortunately, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has deemed the drug too expensive to be funded by the NHS.
Rachel, a 39-year-old mother, was initially diagnosed with breast cancer in 2021 and underwent treatments, but later discovered the cancer had spread to her bones and lungs, leaving her with incurable secondary cancer. She is now on her last treatment option through the NHS and has been advocating for access to Enhertu, which could potentially halt the progression of her cancer.
Despite the drug being available in 19 European countries and Scotland, Rachel is unable to receive it in Wales. The cost barrier has prompted Rachel to consider moving away from her family to Scotland for treatment or funding the drug privately, both of which are not viable options for her.
Rachel’s story has garnered attention from drug companies, charities, and her own sister, Melanie, who is fundraising to support Rachel’s access to the treatment she needs. Breast Cancer Now’s chief executive, Claire Rowney, highlighted the urgency of the situation, stating that the drug could provide patients like Rachel with more hope and time to live well.
NICE’s decision-making process regarding funding for drugs has left Rachel and many other patients feeling confused and frustrated, especially as neighbouring countries have approved the drug for use. The Welsh Government has reiterated its reliance on NICE guidelines for funding decisions, emphasizing the need to balance treatment costs with benefits to patients and the NHS.
Rachel’s plea for access to Enhertu underscores the heart-wrenching reality faced by many patients who are seeking life-prolonging treatments not readily available to them. As she continues her battle against cancer, Rachel’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges individuals with serious illnesses encounter in navigating healthcare systems for life-saving treatments.