More Western Australians will now have the chance to provide feedback to help improve cancer services in WA, following the opening of a round of public consultation today.
The McGowan Government is committed to taking a long-term strategic approach to the improvement of cancer services and research in Western Australia and the Department of Health is currently developing the WA Cancer Plan 2020-2025.
The current consultation period is the third round offered and latest opportunity for the community and stakeholders to provide views as part of the significant work underway to develop the Cancer Plan, due to be released in February next year.
The consultation focus is on cancer control, which aims to reduce the incidence, mortality and impact of cancer on the population and looks at areas including cancer prevention, detection, screening, treatment, survivorship and palliative care.
The purpose of the consultation is to inform the key priorities for the Cancer Plan and to set out a clear set of actions for cancer services over the next five years.
Cancer organisations and members of the community are encouraged to take part in consultation and surveys to ensure the Plan is responsive to the needs of consumers and service providers.
Expert advice is also being sought from WA cancer service providers, healthcare professionals and researchers on the strategies required to improve cancer control and research.
Feedback can be provided by completing an online survey or submitting a written online submission.
The consultation and further information about the Plan can be found at https://www.health.wa.gov.au/cancerplan
As stated by Health Minister Roger Cook:
"Cancer is a major cause of illness in Western Australia. A cancer diagnosis has lasting implications for individuals, families and communities and it has a significant impact on the health system.
"The WA Cancer Plan 2020-2025 is an important piece of work which demonstrates a clear commitment by the Government of Western Australia to improve the cancer outcomes across the State.
"It will focus on strategies for cancer prevention, early detection, intervention, access to services and research efforts, in order to reduce the incidence, prevalence and impact of cancer on Western Australians who are at risk of, or are already living with cancer.
"This consultation will provide vital feedback to better understand the current state of WA cancer services and research in WA so that we can continue to plan for, invest in and deliver improved cancer services which meet the community needs, now and into the future."
Minister's office - 0408 936 191
