In:
Journal of Clinical Oncology, American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), Vol. 38, No. 15_suppl ( 2020-05-20), p. e14131-e14131
Abstract:
e14131 Background: Cancer survival in New Zealand (NZ) is high in global terms but gains in outcome are less than in comparable countries over recent time cohorts. Outcomes of indigenous Māori New Zealanders are significantly worse for most major cancers. This is potentially due to decentralisation of cancer provision and lack of emphasis on national governance. Methods: In 2017, academics, clinicians and patient advocates embarked on a planned and sustained programme of advocacy with the goal of establishing a national cancer plan, centralised cancer governance, and publicly reportable cancer outcomes and quality indicators by region and ethnicity. Elements central to success were partnerships with politicians and opposition parties, building credible media voices, establishing international academic collaborations, clear problem identification, positive evidence-based policy solutions, sustained and consistent yet varied media messaging, and strong relatable patient stories with direct citizen engagement. Results: As a direct result, in 2019 the Government established a National Cancer Agency, updated the national cancer plan for the first time in 16 years, moved to dissolve regional cancer networks, and appointed a national director of cancer control. New funding specifically for cancer investment was also announced and commitments to additional funding have been made. We review the strategies that were most successful, challenges encountered, and outcomes achieved. Conclusions: Advocacy and collaboration between patients, academics and clinicians remains a powerful stimulus for meaningful policy change. Our approach can be instructive for other countries where national cancer control and governmental leadership are faltering.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
0732-183X
,
1527-7755
DOI:
10.1200/JCO.2020.38.15_suppl.e14131
Language:
English
Publisher:
American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO)
Publication Date:
2020
detail.hit.zdb_id:
2005181-5
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