I am writing to let you know about a new service for laryngectomy patients, which we are implementing here at The Royal Surrey County Hospital.  As we have developed into a cancer centre, we are undertaking more surgery and the number of laryngectomy patients is increasing. In order to make the service run more efficiently and to meet our patient's needs, we plan to have a dedicated clinic in which we can address any problems that may have arisen.  We have therefore decided to pilot a 'drop in clinic' for laryngectomy patients, to be held weekly on: Tuesday morning between 11.00 a.m. - 1.00 p.m.  The clinic will be held on Clandon Ward and an appointment will not be necessary.  All problems can be addressed during the clinic such as valve changing or merely talking over any difficulties that you have been having. However I must point out that if a valve change is needed, you may have to wait in the 'day room' if the treatment room is being used to manage an emergency - (please note there may be other patients /family members also waiting in the day room)  However, should you experience leakage or another problem that requires urgent attention, please continue to contact Speech Therapy as normal on Telephone No. 01483 571122 Ext. 4654 or 6421.  I will be available on Clandon Ward between these dedicated times, and I would suggest that upon on arrival you inform the nursing staff at the desk that you have come for the laryngectomy clinic, and then wait in the day room.  We are hopeful that this new initiative will be successful. We are therefore planning to start this 'drop in clinic' on: Tuesday 10th November 2009 -11.00 am -1.00 pm.  Should you have any queries or require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.  With kind regards, yours sincerely      Jan Humphries        Macmillan speech and language Therapist