On World Cancer Day, the Government released its National Cancer Plan for England.
BIVDA Chief Executive Helen Dent, welcomed the plan, saying:
‘BIVDA is delighted that much of what we have championed over the past few years is clearly reflected in this plan. This includes the strengthened focus on genomics and the commitment to a more coherent innovation pathway, however, more must be done to provide greater access to in vitro diagnostics (IVDs) in Community Diagnostic Centres (CDCs).
‘If realised, these measures will be central to accelerating earlier diagnosis and ensuring patients benefit from cutting‑edge diagnostic technologies as soon as possible.’
On genomics, BIVDA is pleased that the plan further strengthens this area to improve the care pathway by:
– Extending ctDNA and other biomarking tests to other cancers through the NHS Genomic Medicine Service over the next five years.
– Accelerating access to genomic testing through cheek swab tests.
The plan recognises that the NHS has struggled to adopt evidence-backed innovations into routine practice at scale and pace. BIVDA has consistently advocated for action to remedy this issue. Therefore, we are glad to see pledges to establish:
– A clear innovation pathway, with cancer as an exemplar condition, with investment to support both adoption of products and evidence-generation for regulatory approval.
– A new National HealthTech Access Programme to bring the approval process for technologies in line with the appraisal process for medicines to streamline innovation adoption.
– Proactive preparation for Multi-Cancer Early Detection Tests and similar groundbreaking tests, with an implementation plan in place for rollout where economically viable and effective.
We also welcome moves to streamline access to testing for patients through straight-to-test pathways and the NHS App, and to explore innovative procurement methods to stimulate cancer diagnostic innovation, including advance market commitments.
On Community Diagnostic Centres (CDCs), the plan promises their expansion yet admits that they require better utilisation and currently miss opportunities to achieve the earliest possible diagnosis. We agree and, as we have consistently stated, CDCs must offer a greater variety of in vitro diagnostic tests (IVDs) and deliver more of them to make best use of the sites and avoid being seen solely as imaging centres.
David Thorne, Director of NHS Policy at BIVDA, added:
‘The National Cancer Plan for England contains a refreshingly high level of detail and clear actions compared to recent NHS policy documents.
‘It highlights several promising areas, including genomics and innovation adoption, which should encourage the IVD sector. The challenge now lies in effective delivery and ensuring that, with an NHS in flux, every part of the system receives the support needed to implement the plan successfully.’
You can read the full plan here.
