Research revealing that rectal cancer patients in Guernsey had more positive outcomes than those in the UK has been showcased at a national conference as part of efforts to recruit new surgeons and consultants to the island.
MSG consultant Carol Makin (pictured), who spent over a decade working for the MSG and 20 years as a consultant in the UK, demonstrated her findings at the Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland annual conference.
Between 2011 and 2016, 100% of patients in Guernsey had temporary stomas closed within 18 months, compared to 72% of patients in the UK, and no patients in Guernsey were readmitted within 90 days, compared with 20% of patients in the UK.
The research also showed that patients in Guernsey with acute appendicitis underwent surgery within six hours of assessment by a surgeon, compared with 24 hours in the UK.
At the exhibition, Carol and other members of the MSG team spoke with surgeons and medical experts from around the UK and Ireland about relocating to Guernsey to support the island’s healthcare sector.
Retired MSG surgeon Carol Makin said: “Demonstrating the unparalleled standard of healthcare delivered in Guernsey, particularly around colorectal cancers, is a key driver in encouraging surgeons and consultants to relocate to the island.
“Having a consultant-only service results in more efficient, timely and high-quality care, so we are very fortunate to have this structure in the island.
“My research highlights the exceptional work of medical staff in Guernsey and aims to communicate to potential recruits how much we appreciate their dedication to upholding the high standard of care we pride ourselves on.
“Engaging with healthcare professionals in the UK and Ireland not only helps the MSG with recruitment but also puts us on the map and allows us to share our successes with the medical world.”
