Introduction

Patients will now have the opportunity to enroll in clinical trials via the NHS App, as part of the newly launched National Cancer Plan by the government.

Key Objectives of the National Cancer Plan

• The NHS aims for 75% of cancer patients diagnosed from 2035 onwards to be cancer-free or living well after five years.
• Since 2014, the NHS has struggled to meet its target of 85% of patients starting treatment within 62 days of referral.
• By March 2029, the NHS plans to meet cancer waiting time standards, ensuring timely treatment for hundreds of thousands of patients.

Statements from Officials

Health Secretary Wes Streeting stated:

“Our cancer plan will invest in and modernise the NHS, so that opportunity can be seized and our ambitions realised. This plan will reduce waits, invest in cutting-edge technology, and give every patient the best possible chance of beating cancer.”

Features of the New Plan

• Patients can search for clinical trials on the clinical research database through the NHS App and request to be contacted.
• In the future, patients will receive automatic notifications about relevant clinical trials.
• The Be Part of Research service will be integrated into the NHS App, helping patients with rare cancers find suitable trials.

Investment and Technological Advancements

• The plan includes a £2.3 billion investment to deliver 9.5 million additional tests by 2029, enhancing scanners, digital technology, and automated testing.
• The number of robot-assisted procedures is expected to increase from 70,000 to 500,000 by 2035, aiming to reduce complications and free up hospital beds.
• Patients will be offered tests that analyze the DNA of their cancer to tailor treatments effectively.
• New technology will provide patients with better access to tests by offering the earliest available appointments from NHS organizations.

AI Initiatives

Earlier this month, the government announced a new AI pilot aimed at detecting hard-to-reach lung cancers with fewer invasive tests.

Expert Opinions

Professor Peter Johnson, NHS national clinical director for cancer, remarked:

“The National Cancer Plan will see the NHS deliver world-class cancer care, offering renewed hope for millions and ensuring the health service is there for patients whenever they need it.”

Sarah Woolnough, chief executive of The King’s Fund, praised the plan but noted:

“The system as it stands will not meet the cancer treatment standards by 2029 unless there is a big step change.”

Conclusion

The National Cancer Plan, along with the Rare Cancers Bill, aims to enhance access to clinical trials and improve outcomes for patients with rare cancers, ultimately striving for a more effective and responsive healthcare system.