From 1 October 2010 to 31 March 2011 an additional £4.2 million was allocated to the NHS in the East Midlands to improve access to cancer drug treatments.
The East Midlands was allocated this fund from the £50 million secured nationally which was announced by Andrew Lansley, Secretary of State for Health in July 2010.
NHS organisations across the region worked together to create a fair and equitable process for applications which were made through individual patients’ cancer specialists to an Interim Cancer Drug Fund (ICDF).
The new Interim Cancer Drug Fund did not replace the existing local processes run by Primary Care Trusts to enable patients to access cancer treatment.
It is important to remember that although the extra money did potentially extend life or improve the quality of life for a small number of additional patients, the crucial factor to treating cancer successfully is early diagnosis and prevention wherever possible.
In the East Midlands we are continuing to focus on improving access to cancer screening programmes and appropriate diagnostic tests as well as supporting people to make lifestyle changes such as stopping smoking that will reduce their risk of getting cancer.
It is always recommended that if you are concerned about your health you should seek medical advice as early as possible.
Click on the link below to see a report on the total number of applicants to the fund.
October 2010 - March 2011
For further queries about the process please email: emsha.eastmidscancerdrugsfund@nhs.net
