Finalist
Capacity To Deliver: New Ways to Increase Capacity in Cancer Services
by Incisive Health for AstraZeneca
Summary of work
We are in a golden age of scientific discovery – transforming our ability to diagnose, treat and even ‘cure’ cancer. However, we will only be able to realise this opportunity if cancer services have the capacity to deliver care to those who need it, when they need it – currently, these services are overstretched
While this challenge is well understood, solutions are thin on the ground. To help accelerate change, Incisive Health spoke to cancer policy experts from a range of backgrounds to identify quick wins to free up capacity, leading to a [report](https://www.datocms-assets.com/66701/1679592591-capacity-to-deliver-march-2023-2.pdf) making 15 recommendations for policy change. The report was initiated and funded by AstraZeneca, although the views expressed are not necessarily those of the funder.
In order to engage policymakers, the report was launched in The Times, where the [story](https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/pointless-tests-are-delaying-cancer-care-nhs-is-warned-kd9xbs058) appeared on the front page alongside a Times Red Box [oped](https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/we-cant-wait-for-a-workforce-plan-to-improve-cancer-care-cxqpmx89f). The report was also featured on the influential Times Radio breakfast programme.
The report captured the imagination of policymakers, stimulating dialogue with Number 10, the Treasury, the Department of Health and Social Care and NHS England. Action soon followed, with investment in more Community Diagnostic Centres, funding for AI diagnostics and new policies on cancer pathway reforms.
Judges’ comments
‘Capacity to deliver: New ways to increase capacity in cancer services’ is an impressive campaign focused on pragmatic solutions. Its objectives are clear, its strategy focused and its outcomes incredibly strong. The team knew what it wanted to deliver, and did just that, all while working with a more modest budget.
