Dr Manikyam marks 15 years of dedicated, high-quality cancer care for islanders

Dr Yogesh Manikyam, Consultant Oncologist, is celebrating 15 years of providing high-quality, patient-centred cancer care to islanders. 

Since joining the group in 2011, Dr Manikyam has played a key role in delivering specialist cancer care locally, supporting patients and their families with expertise, compassion and dedication. Over the years, he has witnessed first-hand how advances in treatment and technology have transformed cancer care, leading to better outcomes and improving the lives of many patients in the community.  

Dr Manikyam said, 'When I joined 2011, oncology had just moved into the new Bulstrode Unit, overseeing gastrointestinal cancers, melanoma, and ovarian cancer. 

‘It has been a privilege to be part of this journey from its early days. The progress achieved over this period wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication and support of an exceptional team of secretaries, administrative colleagues, specialist chemotherapy nurses, pharmacists, and volunteers within the unit. Working together in a genuinely collaborative, flexible, and supportive environment has been extremely rewarding. 

‘Over the years, the volume, complexity, and breadth of treatments delivered have increased dramatically. Alongside this, the team itself has grown, now comprising multiple consultants, including visiting consultant services, an expanding group of cancer nurse specialists, and a wide range of invaluable support staff. 

He continued, ‘The past 15 years have seen extraordinary advances in oncology. The emergence of immunotherapy and molecular profiling, enabling personalised and targeted treatments, has transformed the treatment landscape and delivered improvements in clinical outcomes that once felt beyond reach. It has been heartening to witness these changes and to see the direct impact on patients’ lives. 

‘As we plan for the future, there are significant challenges. Our priorities will be to integrate complex molecular profiling, ensuring effective treatments are accessible to all patients who might benefit and to provide a comprehensive holistic care for long term survivors. At the same time, the growing population of long-term cancer survivors requires an expanded, holistic approach to care that extends beyond active treatment. I remain optimistic that with continued service development and workforce expansion, the service will continue to evolve to remain resilient, patient centred and meet these challenges.’ 

‘On behalf of the organisation, I want to express our gratitude to Yogesh for his outstanding 15 years of service to oncology on the island.’ said Chair of the MSG Dr Michelle Le Cheminant. ‘Since joining in 2011, he has been instrumental in developing our oncology services into the comprehensive, multidisciplinary service we have today. 

‘Yogesh's dedication to his patients and collaborative leadership have been exemplary. His commitment to ensuring our island community has access to high quality cancer care has transformed countless lives. 

‘We are immensely grateful for his service and his vision for patient-centred care that will continue to benefit our community for many years to come.