John Lahart
Question:126. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Health if he will report on the cancer strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50621/21]
View answerTuesday, 19 October 2021
Questions (126)
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 four years, with clear evidence-based policy direction from my Department and strong implementation by the HSE's National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP).
The National Cancer Strategy 2017-2026 Implementation Report 2020 was published on 5th May. This sets out the progress achieved on the implementation of the 52 recommendations of the Strategy, and the degree to which the key performance indicators are being met, to the end of 2020. It is available on the Department of Health website at: www.gov.ie/en/publication/bd03f-national-cancer-strategy-implementation-report-2020/.
New development funding of €20m was provided for the implementation of the National Cancer Strategy this year. This funding is being used to support ongoing initiatives and to drive improvements across all stages of the cancer continuum, including to:
- 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;
- 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 was allocated in 2021 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.
I have now secured a further €20m in Budget 2022 to maintain the momentum in the delivery of the National Cancer Strategy