Labour to keep drugs fund ,so hopefully still have access in some shape or form and hopefully drugs fund wont make more expensive ones totally inaccessible xx
Great news Geordie. Let’s hope so xx
Whichever party is elected next year needs to consider the implication of this fund and realise how vital it is. It is so sad that most people wont have a strong enough opinion about it until it actually affects them in some way.
LD x
Do BCC have a ongoing campaign on this issue, along with the differences between England, Wales and Scotland? Are Northern Ireland patients under the England rulings?
Also it seems a bit worrying, but perhaps I’m missing something here, that radiotherapy is to be included?
It’s a second NICE now, if it’s all down to cost effectiveness? Bumping up to keep up near the top.
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I am not especially drawn to any political party but isn’t it amazing how we are assured of how important we are, how we will be listened to by all the parties when they want our’s and our family’s votes.
Hi Belinda
We know that the issue of access to drugs is a concern for many people. This week, we have written to the PM, along with 8 other cancer charities, to express our concerns about the changes being made to the Cancer Drugs Fund. You can read more about this, as well as our views on this issue more generally, on our blog breastcancercare.org.uk/news/blog/cancer-drugs-fund-update-0
As mentioned below in this thread, the Labour Party has announced plans for a Cancer Treatment Fund (CTF), to replace the Cancer Drugs Fund when it comes to an end in 2016. The CTF will also fund radiotherapy and surgery, as well as drugs. At the moment we don’t have much more detail than this.
We’re continuing to monitor the situation and highlighting the possible impact of these changes on people affected by breast cancer. Ultimately, we want every patient across the UK to benefit from new approved treatments, so will continue to do what we can to ensure that this happens.
You asked about Northern Ireland - In Northern Ireland, the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety have responsibility for deciding which drugs are available, but may take into account NICE Guidance (which apply to England) when making decisions.
I hope this is helpful. Do get in touch with our team campaigns@breastcancercare.org.uk with any comments or feedback on how these changes affect you. The more we hear from you, the stronger is the case we’re able to put to policymakers.