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North Middlesex Hospital Accident and Emergency Services: Cancer Patients

03 March 2026

Lead MP

Kate Osamor
Edmonton and Winchmore Hill
Lab Co-op

Responding Minister

Karin Smyth

Tags

NHSTaxationEmployment
Word Count: 2464
Other Contributors: 1

At a Glance

Kate Osamor raised concerns about north middlesex hospital accident and emergency services: cancer patients in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key Requests to Government:

I urge the government to take immediate action to strengthen community-based cancer services and ensure that all patients receive timely and appropriate care. This includes increasing funding for cancer services and improving access to early diagnosis and treatment. Osamor requests that the Government consider providing North Middlesex Hospital with the funding needed to establish an oncology assessment unit, conduct a wider assessment of the safety and suitability of settings for immunocompromised patients, and evaluate the impact of the 10-year health plan on cancer patient care.

How the Debate Unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:

Lead Contributor

Kate Osamor Lab Co-op
Edmonton and Winchmore Hill
Opened the debate
I am concerned about the long wait times at the North Middlesex Hospital's Accident and Emergency department, where patients are waiting over 12 hours for admission or discharge. The situation is unacceptable, with many patients not being treated within the four-hour target. This impacts cancer patients particularly severely, as delays can affect their treatment outcomes and overall health. Kate Osamor is concerned about the inadequate resources at North Middlesex Hospital, particularly the lack of isolation capacity and private triage areas for immunocompromised oncology patients in the accident and emergency department. She cited the case of Mr Jack Thorn, who faced 15-hour waits in crowded and unsuitable waiting rooms, increasing his risk of infection. She also mentioned another constituent who had to sleep in a chair for two days without proper hygiene or privacy. The hospital's efforts to improve care through initiatives like the same-day emergency care hub have been hindered by a lack of funding and specialist staff.

Government Response

Karin Smyth
Government Response
Karin Smyth addressed the debate, acknowledging the distress faced by cancer patients in A&E and the need for improved NHS performance. She outlined the government's national cancer plan to address poor experiences and support early diagnosis through Jess's rule. Smyth highlighted a pilot for an oncology assessment unit and a £250 million investment in same-day emergency care, aiming to reduce unnecessary A&E visits. She recognised the progress made by NHS leaders and the need for further improvements to reduce disparities and ensure patients receive the right care.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy

About Westminster Hall Debates

Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.