We want cancer patients to focus on their own personal health journey, not worry about whether they have access to all the tools and information for the best possible outcome.
New technologies for endometrial cancers that identify DNA mutations that inform targeted therapy are recognised internationally as the standard of care yet are not universally offered in Australia.
“it’s a very frustrating thing that we can’t offer this standard of care to our patients without what is really a reasonable monetary contribution from the patients, a somewhat unfair contribution…” – Dr Greg Gard, Surgical Oncologist.
Genetic testing for lung, breast, and other common cancers is funded, but there are many cancers for which it is not readily accessible. We know genetic information informs better management decisions, and can have profoundly positive results, particularly if accessed early in diagnostic journeys.
We need more agile and flexible funding pathways so that all cancer patients, regardless of type or postcode, can have funded access to essential genetic testing services.
“I certainly believe Australia is a very equitable place and there should be equal care for all…” – Dr Greg Gard, Surgical Oncologist.
Watch Greg’s story, share it widely, and demand better from your healthcare system. Australia is falling behind the rest of the world and we are missing out.