5. SEVEN LESSONS (FOR PRIORITIZING CANCER CARE)

CANADIANS WITH CANCER ARE DYING TO BE A PRIORITY

The care of people with cancer in Canada demands urgent attention from all stakeholders. Regardless of the efforts and successes of other countries (politically led) to prioritize cancer, Canada has yet to make considerable progress in this regard. 

Despite the complexity of the issue, the challenge of coordinating efforts provincially, competing priorities and limited government resources, change is needed. However, for real change to occur, it is essential that all stakeholders, government agencies, healthcare providers, researchers, patients and patient groups, and industry work collaboratively, even with these conflicting interests. Governments and government agencies must take the lead in this effort and address these issues as a matter of urgency. By prioritizing cancer as a political issue, Canada can take significant strides towards reducing the burden of cancer and improving the lives of those affected by it. Let us work together to make cancer a national priority and ensure that no Canadian is left behind.

THE SEVEN LESSONS

The COVID19 pandemic has brought to the forefront the critical importance of prioritizing healthcare on political agendas. Governments around the world faced an unprecedented challenge in responding to the crisis, revealing the shortcomings and vulnerabilities of healthcare systems. However, amidst the chaos and devastation caused by the pandemic, there are valuable lessons to be learned that can be applied to cancer.