Major improvements in the support and care of people living with cancer in England are announced in a new government cancer plan published today, in which Macmillan Cancer Support has played a key role.
The Cancer Reform Strategy, due to be launched this morning by the Health Secretary Alan Johnson, will be far-reaching, and will fully recognise the complex needs of people living with cancer- offering them a wider range of care and support during and after treatment.
Cancer survival rates have improved massively in recent years - around 50% of people now live for more than five years after a cancer diagnosis. So it is vital they get the help they need to manage the long-term effects of the disease and receive financial, emotional and practical as well as medical support and information to get their lives back on track.
A new Survivorship Initiative, led by National Cancer Director for England, Mike Richards, in partnership with Macmillan and others, forms a central plank of the today's government strategy and will make major improvements to the range and quality of support given to people living with cancer.
Patients are to receive a personalised package of on-going support, improved financial advice, help to help themselves, greater emotional support and initiatives to combat the long-term effects of the disease.
Macmillan Chief Executive, Ciaran Devane, says;
'People living with cancer tell Macmillan that cancer can have a devastating effect on their finances, their jobs and their relationships. We are delighted they are at last to get the support they so badly need. Macmillan warmly welcomes today's plan and our involvement in these initiatives. We will be playing a key role in ensuring this plan is implemented and its aims become a reality."
Macmillan also particularly welcomes the recognition of the crucial role that Clinical Nurse Specialists play in co-ordinating patient care and the commitment to reducing shortfalls in this vital area of the workforce and the announcement of annual patient experience survey to measure and encourage better patient-centred care.
Find out more on the Cancer Reform Strategy in Campaigns >>
For media information, please contact:
Rebecca Openshaw, Macmillan Cancer Support Press Office, Tel: 020 7840 4699 (out of hours 07801 307068) or email ropenshaw@macmillan.org.uk