David Cullinane
Question:1875. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Minister for Health the breakdown of the additional funding provided in Budget 2021 for the National Cancer Strategy; and the way in which it was used. [35676/21]
View answerTuesday, 27 July 2021
Questions (1875)
Written answers
The implementation of the National Cancer Strategy is a Programme for Government commitment, and is part of the implementation of Sláintecare. We have seen significant progress on the implementation of the Strategy over the past three years, with clear evidence-based policy direction from my Department and strong implementation by the HSE's National Cancer Control Programme.
An extra €20m has been allocated for the continued implementation of the National Cancer Strategy in 2021.
This funding is being used to support ongoing initiatives and drive improvements across all stages of the cancer continuum, including:
- progress cancer prevention initiatives;
- improve performance of Rapid Access Clinics (RACs) for breast, lung and prostate cancers. The aim is to see all patients within the agreed KPIs;
- improve access to diagnostics for patients with cancer tumours not covered by an RAC (only covers breast, lung and prostate);
- address the increasing, and more complex, demand for radiation oncology, including the provision of essential staffing requirements for the new facility in CUH, and the development of the new facility in UHG;
- enhance medical oncology services to meet the growing need;
- improve services in the Hereditary Cancer Programme;
- development of the Cancer Genetics Service;
- increased use of previously approved cancer drugs with increasing patient numbers;
- further centralisation of cancer surgery; and
- continue the development of survivorship services, including psycho-oncology services, to improve quality of life of those living with and beyond cancer.
Furthermore, an additional €12m has been allocated specifically for the restoration of cancer services in the context of Covid-19. This funding is supporting hospitals in addressing backlogs, extending clinic times, providing additional clinics, increasing diagnostic capacity and providing locum support. It is also supporting virtual clinics and more accurate triage, and is facilitating infrastructure improvements and equipment purchases to increase capacity across Rapid Access Clinics and surgical, medical and radiation oncology services.