On the 12-13 of December, 2024, a group of brilliant colleagues and I met at St. George’s House, Windsor Castle. We weren’t there as tourists to admire the architecture–although that was quite impressive–but rather to convene and debate the future of cancer care within the NHS.

St. George’s House has long stood for letting all speak and debate freely about important ethical topics of national importance, and we are so grateful for their providing this space to us. We began our two long but rewarding days discussing what could work and what would not. We followed Chatham House rules so all could share their opinion and be heard, giving space for the brilliant perspectives and voices of every attendee. Lord Kakkar acted as our chair, and we appreciate his skill, experience, and input immensely.

The NHS are doing the best they can under the depleting resources at their disposal and following the stress and trauma of the COVID pandemic. They are world-class and need to be applauded for the way they are working through the pressure. There are now some much-needed changes within the management of the NHS, and these changes do help to meet the needs of the future.

However, within these changes, we need to ensure that planning provides cancer treatment that is accessible, timely, affordable, and appropriate for all. That’s why meetings like this are so important. We need to bring the voices and minds of UK leaders in cancer care together and work to find sustainable solutions.

We now have an important report with the support of all the authors and leaders. I would encourage all to read and share within their networks, with their MP, and with any others who influence policies at every level.

We want Wes Streeting to engage with this wide range of experts and take this piece of work to the next step within a new National Cancer Plan.

Highlights from the report include:

• Digital Transformation in the NHS can work in cancer care

• Integrated Records and use of AI, where appropriate, for productivity and quality

• Data policies that let us evaluate progress on the National Cancer Plan ensure improvement in cancer survival

• Needed Cultural Change and Reduced Bureaucracy to transform the way we work

• Empowered Workforce that can make things better every day in every way

• Independent Expert Taskforce to advise, monitor, and hold to account the new National Cancer Plan

Please read and share your highlights with us as well.

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To learn more about St. George’s House and their discussion on cancer treatment, take a moment to listen to Professor Price’s first interview with St. George’s House from June 2023 here.