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Australian & New Zealand Childrens Haematology/Oncology Group

News

Launch of the National Strategic Action Plan for Blood Cancer

ANZCHOG is pleased to announce the release of Australia’s first National Strategic Action Plan for Blood Cancer, as announced yesterday by Federal Health Minister the Hon. Greg Hunt MP and the Leukaemia Foundation (Blood Cancer Taskforce Secretariat).

The National Action Plan outlines the ambitious vision of zero lives lost to blood cancer by 2035, with an evidence-based blueprint to coordinate and accelerate national efforts to improve survival and quality of life outcomes for people diagnosed with blood cancer and to support their carers and families. Importantly, a series of recommendations are provided across the spectrum of blood cancer: from research and clinical trials, precision medicines, treatment access and reimbursement, through to achieving best practice in diagnosis, treatment and supportive care.

With input from over 40 of Australia’s blood cancer and community organisations, the National Action Plan seeks to improve patient support from diagnosis, through their treatment and recovery and adjusting to a life beyond treatment, regardless of their location or background.

Two of Australia’s leading paediatric blood cancer clinicians were members of the Blood Cancer Taskforce, charged with leading the development of the National Action Plan. “We have been delighted to contribute to this important piece of work, with the establishment of a national strategy to improve patient outcomes,” said Dr Chris Fraser, commenting on his, and fellow ANZCHOG member A/Professor Rishi Kotecha’s, inclusion in the Taskforce. “It is vital that ANZCHOG representatives ensure that the needs of paediatric blood cancer patients and health professionals are considered in the development of such plans.”

The National Action Plan identified 4 major priority areas:

  • Empower patients and their families
  • Achieve best practice
  • Accelerate research
  • Enable access to novel and specialised therapies

To view the full report: Click Here

To view Greg Hunt’s media release: Click Here

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