Project Name: Imperial College Hospital Expansion of Neuroendocrine Tumor Service

Project Summary:

The Imperial NET CNS Collaborative Working Project (CWP) is a partnership between Novartis Pharmaceuticals UK and Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust aimed at expanding and strengthening Neuroendocrine Tumour (NET) services at Imperial College Hospital. The project responds to a sharp rise in NET referrals—up 84% from 2023 to 2024—and the urgent need for a dedicated Band 7 NET Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) to maintain the hospital’s ENETS Centre of Excellence status and improve patient care.

The CWP will involve the recruitment, onboarding, and integration of a NET CNS to enhance service capacity, reduce treatment delays, and improve both patient and staff experience. The CNS will play a pivotal role in MDT coordination, patient communication, and administrative support, relieving pressure on consultants and ensuring more efficient care pathways.
A summary of Project Aims: 

  • Service Expansion in line with increasing referrals and demand for treatment
  • Retain ENETS Centre of Excellence status and strengthening provider reputation
  • Improve MDT planning and reduces repeat discussions on patient cases
  • Shorten time from treatment decision to initiation.
  • Enhance service coordination and continuity of care.
  • Boost both patient and staff satisfaction with the service
  • Provide resilience and cross-cover during periods of leave or sickness – a requirement for ENETS centre of excellence there needs to be two NETS CNSs

The project’s success will be measured through periodic data reports and milestone reviews, with the ultimate goal of building a business case for long-term NHS funding of the CNS role. Outcomes will be published in line with ABPI guidelines, ensuring transparency and shared learning across the healthcare system.

Expected Benefits: 

Benefits for the NHS (Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust)

  • Further recognition and enhanced reputation in showcasing best practice in treating NET patients
  • Service expansion impacting patient’s access to care
  • Quality improvements and efficiencies to improve staff and patient experience

Benefits for Patients

  • Increased access to treatment & treatment options for NET patients
  • Enhanced education and empowerment to impact patient experiences
  • Equitable access across regions
  • Stronger clinical support network

Benefits for Novartis

  • Patients will have increased access to treatments, which may include Novartis medicines
  • Enhanced reputation as a trusted partner in the delivery of advanced cancer therapies.
  • Shared learnings on the role of NET CNSs in optimising care pathways.
  • Better understanding of patient and system needs.

Start Date & Duration: 
Start date: November 2025
End date: January 2029

FA-11552450 | November 2025