Bad medicine

PATIENTS understand that some drugs are simply too costly or too new to be handed out to everyone. What they, nor the rest of society, cannot make sense of, is why dying people should be helped in one part of Britain and ignored in another.

By The Newsroom

Published 28th Apr 2010, 23:32 BST

Updated 28th Apr 2010, 23:32 BST

For Fred Binch, however, the complexities of the system are secondary to one basic truth. He has inoperable tumours, a drug could extend his life and North Yorkshire and NHS Trust won't give it to him.

This is unfair. It is appalling that everolimus is being denied to him when it has been made available, even on a limited basis, in other parts of the country. In the 21st century the location of one's home should not dictate the quality of treatment.

Similarly poor has been the trust's handling of the case of Mr Binch, from Scarborough. It has failed to show the sensitivity and attention to detail which is essential when dealing with the pleas of a dying man.

There is still a chance for the trust to change its mind, however. It is time to show some compassion to Mr Binch and end this postcode lottery.