Pharma industry joins University of Melbourne to map the gaps in cancer care

A new national survey has been launched to put the lived experiences of people impacted by cancer at the centre of future policy and decision-making.

The All.Can Australia survey, funded by the Medicines Australia Oncology Industry Taskforce (OIT), is inviting perspectives from Australians affected by any type and stage of cancer, along with their caregivers. The aim is to uncover critical gaps in treatment and support, ensuring that future cancer care strategies are informed by real-world insights.

Professor Christobel Saunders, Co-Chair of All.Can Australia and President-elect of All.Can International, said the initiative builds on earlier work that helped shape national cancer care planning.

“In 2018, we supported the All.Can Global patient survey, with around 800 Australians sharing their views on opportunities to improve efficiencies in cancer care. This provided invaluable insights that helped shape the direction of All.Can Australia’s work and supported conversations with policy makers and the health industry, ultimately contributing to the launch of Australian National Cancer Plan,” said Professor Saunders.

“This new research will build on the insights we have and capture the needs and aspirations that would have inevitably changed over time. We want to hear from more people impacted by cancer on what has and hasn’t worked for them recently, so we are guided by the most current insights.”

Dr Susannah Morris, Consumer Health Advocate and All.Can Australia Member, commented “As someone who has navigated the complexities of cancer care firsthand, I know that the voice of lived experience is crucial in shaping person-centred, value-based health policies that truly address people’s needs in ways that help them live well with and beyond their diagnoses. By participating in this survey, patients and caregivers can help ensure that cancer care becomes more compassionate, accessible, and equitable for all.”

For Bill Petch, Co-Chair of All.Can Australia and CEO of Crohn’s Colitis Cure, robust data is central to reform.

“We cannot design and deliver efficient cancer care that is attuned to our nation’s needs without reliable data that reflects patients and caregivers’ real challenges. That’s why we’re urging the health industry and community to support and share this survey. It is an opportunity to have your say and share your experiences. These insights are not just valuable for All.Can Australia, but everyone, as they will shape cancer care policies that help people better navigate cancer care,” said Petch.

The Oncology Industry Taskforce reinforced the critical role of collaboration across the cancer care ecosystem.

Heather Cahill, Co-Chair of the Taskforce and Business Unit Director, Oncology at AstraZeneca Australia and New Zealand, said “With the rapid innovation of the oncology field, it is only through working together – with patients, clinicians, government, and industry – that we can ensure that these innovative solutions are backed by real-world evidence and are designed to drive improved outcomes for people affected by cancer.”

Fellow Co-Chair, Dr Katrina Vanin, Business Unit Director Oncology at GSK, added that the Taskforce is keen to see the results.

“The better we understand the experience of patients in the health care system, the better we can act and advocate to ensure Australians are able to access the treatments and care they need throughout their cancer journey,” said Dr Vanin.

All.Can Australia is led by representatives from cancer organisations, consumer advocates, biopharmaceutical industry, pharmacists and university faculties. The survey is open until 17 September and can be accessed here.

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