Breast Cancer Care: Comment on the government’s launch of a consultation on patient’s legal rights

Jane Hatfield, Director of Policy and Research at Breast Cancer Care, said:

“These proposals will give breast cancer patients clarity on how quickly they can expect to seen. The pledge to reduce waiting times is extremely welcome as we know that unnecessary waiting can cause great anxiety for patients and their families.

“However, if private providers are to be used to meet the two-week target, it is essential that structures are put in place to ensure a continuity of care between these and NHS services so that women affected by breast cancer can receive the highest standard of care wherever they live.

“While these proposals show a strong commitment to the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer, to make this truly effective there needs to be continued investment to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer amongst GPs and patients.”

ENDS

For further media information, please contact
Laura Grossart
0207 960 3473/ 0770 290 1334
laura.grossart@breastcancercare.org.uk

Breast Cancer Care is here for anyone affected by breast cancer. We bring people together, provide information and support, and campaign for improved standards of care. We use our understanding of people’s experience of breast cancer and our clinical expertise in everything we do. Visit www.breastcancercare.org.uk or call our free helpline on 0808 800 6000.

Ian Manley
Press and PR Manager, Policy, Campaigns and Services
ian.manley@breastcancercare.org.uk
0207 960 3450