Achievements

Clinical Director for Breast Oncology, GenesisCare

After a short period as Specialist Advisor to GenesisCare, Russell was invited to apply, and subsequently appointed, Clinical Director for Breast Oncology at GenesisCare UK. This exciting role involves ensuring patients receive state-of-the-art treatment at the 14 UK centres, liaising with global colleagues and developing the strategy for service development.

Patient Journey App

Russell developed and launched a patient app to provide user-friendly information available on smartphones and tablets. The app provides patients with reliable information about their diagnosis and treatment, with links to national support organisations and local charities. Feedback from patients has been excellent. The project was generously funded by Breast Cancer Kent.

‘First Thoughts’ national breast cancer meeting: Royal College of Physicians, 2016

Russell gave a presentation to 180 UK consultant breast nurses and oncologists, “Transforming secondary breast cancer services in a regional cancer centre,” showcasing how local initiatives have improved services for patients and to share good practice nationally.

Prudential Ride London 100, 2016

The news that a mutual colleague had been diagnosed with breast cancer inspired Russell and his friend Damian to ride 100 miles through London, with 26 000 others, in the UK's largest cycle event.

Finishing on The Mall cheered on by a large crowd they reflected on a "memorable and satisfying experience" - and tired legs!

Thanks to generous sponsorship from family, friends and patients they raised over £2500 for Breast Cancer Care.

Chemotherapy information film

Aware that the prospect of chemotherapy is daunting for most patients, Russell produced a 30-minute patient information documentary on chemotherapy.

90% of patients found the film ‘extremely helpful’. The UK Chemotherapy Partnership posted the film on their website as an educational resource to share good practice nationally.

View the film

MTW Staff awards, 2013

Russell was the first ever double recipient of both Kent Messenger and Courier Newspaper “Hospital Hero" awards, nominated by patients, in 2013.

Citations described an “excellent oncologist” with “kindness and compassion above expectations”.

Russell was unable to attend the awards but his team were there to collect the award from Nick Hewer, Lord Sugar's adviser on the British television series The Apprentice.

Pfizer UK Excellence in Oncology awards, 2011

Best Patient Support Initiative: The Breast Radiotherapy DVD. A film for patients undergoing post-operative breast radiotherapy by Russell Burcombe and the team from Kent Oncology Centre.

What the judges said: “This is a valuable resource. They’ve identified a gap in their service and developed a practical and cost-effective solution. The initiative has received excellent feedback from patients.”