Bernard J. Durkan
Question:196 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children if access to treatment for cancer patients will not be restricted in 2003. [23182/02]
Written Answers. - Cancer Treatment Services.
Since the implementation of the national cancer strategy commenced in 1997, over €103 million has been invested to date in the development of appropriate treatment and care services for people with cancer. Cancer services have benefited from this investment which far exceeds the £25 million requirement initially envisaged under the strategy. Amongst a range of other initiatives, this investment has enabled the funding of 80 additional consultant posts in key areas such as medical oncology, radiology, symptomatic breast disease, palliative care, histopathology and haematology, together with support staff.
This year a total of €27.3 million was provided for the maintenance and development of cancer services, €23.55 million of which was allocated between all health boards. An additional sum of €29 million is being allocated in 2003 for cancer services. This investment will ensure that next year we continue to address increasing demands in cancer services in such areas as oncology/haematology services, oncology drug treatments and symptomatic breast disease services.
In recognition of the need to further develop cancer services, the national health strategy has identified the need for the preparation of a new national cancer strategy. The national cancer strategy 2003 is being developed by the national cancer forum in conjunction with my Department. This strategy will set out the key investment areas to be targeted for the development of cancer services over the coming years and will make recommendations in relation to the organisation and structure of cancer services nationally. This will have regard to existing policies in the areas of symptomatic breast disease and palliative care and the forthcoming recommendations of the expert review group on radiotherapy services. The forum is currently consulting with the ERHA and all health boards, as well as professional bodies, voluntary agencies, patient groups and members of the public in relation to the future development of cancer services, including how best to organise these services.