What the Cancer Plan will mean
17. The Cancer Plan sets out new ambitions for cancer services, and the action that will make those ambitions a reality.
The Plan shows how the government's programme of investment and reform will support the expansion that is needed, streamline cancer services, and offer new opportunities for staff to use their skills and talents to the full.
18. The Plan will be supported by new funding, rising to an extra £570 million a year for cancer services by 2003/04. By 2006 there will be approaching 1,000 extra cancer specialists, more radiographers, more nurses, and targeted action to respond to shortages of other staff who contribute to cancer diagnosis and treatment. In partnership with voluntary organisations, with the New Opportunities Fund, and others, we shall extend the range and accessibility of cancer services right across the country. We cannot make all the changes overnight. But as the Plan is rolled out and milestones are reached, people will begin to see the improvement that will mean we no longer lag behind Europe, and in time will compare with the best in Europe.
19. These are the changes that people will see.
