Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)
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820. To ask the Minister for Health if he will provide a full update on the implementation to date of the National Cancer Strategy Implementation Report since its publication on 5 May 2021; the way he plans to reduce the overall cost to persons being treated for cancer in cases in which they do not have private health insurance or medical cards; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9789/22]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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The implementation of the National Cancer Strategy is a Programme for Government commitment and is part of the implementation of Sláintecare. We have seen significant progress on the implementation of the Strategy over the past four years, with clear evidence-based policy direction from my Department and strong implementation by the HSE's National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP).

As noted by the Deputy, the National Cancer Strategy 2017-2026 Implementation Report 2020was published on 5th May 2021. This sets out the progress achieved on the implementation of the 52 recommendations of the Strategy, and the degree to which the key performance indicators are being met, to the end of 2020.

The National Cancer Strategy 2017-2026 Implementation Report 2021is currently under development and it is hoped that this Report will be published in the coming weeks.

The annual Implementation Report will detail progress made to end 2021, including:

- Implementation of new GP e-referral system for symptomatic breast disease clinics introduced;

- 26 acute oncology nurses in place in the 26 SACT hospitals to assist with ED avoidance for cancer patients;

- Adult CAR-T services repatriated to St. James’s Hospital;

- New radiation oncology facility in CUH fully operational, and construction continuing for the new Galway facility;

- Development and dissemination of best practice guidelines for community cancer support centres; and

- Continuation of the Together 4 Cancer Concern psychological service.

This Government is acutely aware of the costs associated with a diagnosis of cancer, or indeed any long-term illness. The Government’s commitment to Sláintecare reform is clear and unwavering – Sláintecare is putting people at the centre of the health system and working towards universal healthcare for all, where people can access the right services based on need and not ability to pay.

We will continue to have an ongoing focus on the quality and affordability of healthcare focusing on the continued implementation of clinical strategies, including the National Cancer Strategy, and on delivering on the eligibility commitments in Budget 2022.