Supporting people to live better with and beyond cancer
The NHS Long Term Plan (2019) sets two bold ambitions for improving cancer outcomes. These build on and accelerate the significant progress already made through delivery of the recommendations of the Independent Cancer Taskforce (2015):
- By 2028, 55,000 more people will survive cancer for five years or more each year; and
- By 2028, 75% of people will be diagnosed at an early stage (stage one or two).
The NHS is leading the way in cancer care by recognising that quality of life outcomes are as important to people as survival. Personalising aftercare and putting patients more in control of their recovery is, therefore, an important aspect of improving outcomes for patients living with and beyond cancer.
Recognising that receiving care that is tailored to our patient’s needs can have a significant impact on patient experience and quality of life, the East of England Cancer Alliance has continued to develop programmes of work that include:
- Ensuring access to personalised care, including a Care Needs Assessment, a Personalised Care Plan, Cancer Care Plans and health and wellbeing information and support.
- Empowering our patients across the East of England to manage their care, the impact of their cancer, and maximise the potential of digital and community-based support.
- Ensuring that after their treatment our patients will move to a follow-up pathway that suits their needs including rapid access to clinical support when required. This change is to be established in all trusts for all cancers where clinically appropriate by 2023.
