From 17 September 2026, women in England with incurable breast cancer can now access the life-extending drug Enhertu through the NHS. About 1,000 women each year with HER2-low advanced breast cancer will be eligible for this treatment, following a successful negotiation on the drug’s price between the government and its makers. Enhertu has demonstrated significant benefits in clinical trials, nearly doubling median progression-free survival from 5.1 months to 9.9 months compared to standard chemotherapy. The median overall survival increased to 23.4 months from 16.8 months among those who did not receive it, marking a 6.6-month improvement.
This development comes after Enhertu was initially rejected by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) in July 2024 due to cost concerns. However, NICE has now reversed its decision, allowing the NHS to offer this treatment. This change was facilitated by a new commercial arrangement and a recent policy shift that allows the NHS to spend up to £35,000 a year on a patient’s treatment, up from the previous £30,000 limit. The drug has been available in Scotland since December 2023, and it is expected that Wales and Northern Ireland will soon follow suit.
Access to Enhertu for breast cancer patients in England
The NHS in England will now provide Enhertu to women with HER2-low advanced breast cancer, marking a significant milestone in cancer treatment within the country. Claire Rowney, chief executive of Breast Cancer Now, has praised the decision, highlighting the importance of gaining precious time with loved ones for affected women. The drug, developed by AstraZeneca and Daiichi Sankyo, is a targeted treatment that delivers chemotherapy directly to cancer cells, which has shown promising results in delaying disease progression and extending patients’ lifespans.
Dr Anne Rigg, NHS England’s national specialty adviser for chemotherapy, emphasised the positive impact this decision will have on women with secondary breast cancer. The drug’s availability in England follows extensive campaigning by charities, cancer specialists, and patient advocates. With the new recommendation by NICE, the drug is now deemed a cost-effective option for the NHS, thanks to negotiations that led to an adjusted pricing agreement.
What this means for newcomers
For newcomers to the UK, understanding how the NHS provides access to treatments like Enhertu is key. The NHS offers most healthcare services free at the point of use, funded through taxation. Whether you’re a resident or on a visa, once you’re in the UK, you generally have access to NHS services, provided you have paid the Immigration Health Surcharge if applicable. Your first step to accessing NHS healthcare is to register with a GP, which is essential for receiving referrals to specialists and accessing treatments such as Enhertu.
Registering with a GP is straightforward and requires no documentation such as ID or proof of address, making it an accessible process for newcomers. Once registered, you receive an NHS number, which is your unique identifier within the health system. This registration is vital for ensuring you are in the system and can access the necessary care promptly. For more detailed guidance on how to navigate the NHS, you can visit our NHS guide for newcomers.
What you should do
- Register with a GP: This is your first and most key step after arriving in the UK. It’s free and does not require any documents. Registering ensures you are in the NHS system, which is necessary for accessing treatments like Enhertu.
- Understand your NHS entitlements: If you’ve paid the Immigration Health Surcharge, you have the same access as a resident, including to specialist treatments. Make sure you’re aware of what is covered and what charges may apply, particularly for prescriptions and other specific services.
- Stay informed about treatment options: Keep in touch with your GP regarding potential treatments and advancements such as Enhertu. They will guide you through the necessary referrals and ensure you receive appropriate care.
Frequently asked questions
How can I access Enhertu if I’m eligible?
If you have HER2-low advanced breast cancer, your GP or oncologist will discuss treatment options with you, including whether Enhertu is suitable. Your healthcare provider will handle the referral process through the NHS.
Is registering with a GP necessary for accessing cancer treatment?
Yes, registering with a GP is essential. They are your first point of contact in the NHS and necessary for referrals to specialists and accessing advanced treatments like Enhertu.
What costs should I expect with NHS treatments?
Most NHS services, including GP appointments and hospital treatments, are free at the point of use. However, there are fixed charges for prescriptions and certain services in England, but many individuals are exempt from these charges.
Can I use the NHS immediately upon arrival in the UK?
Yes, if you have paid the Immigration Health Surcharge with your visa, you can access NHS services upon arrival. Registering with a GP should be your first step to ensure you can access all necessary healthcare services.
Source: Guardian UK: read the original
