Henny Braund, Chief Executive of Anthony Nolan, attended the Economist Events' War on Cancer Europe on Tuesday 26 November to talk on a panel about the improvement of cancer survival rates over the past 20 years.
The panel, which also included Jerome Coffey, National Director of the National Cancer Control Programme, National Health Executive and Michelle Mitchell OBE, Chief Executive of Cancer Research UK, discussed what good cancer care look likes, and what more is needed to ensure patients receive the best support for their mental and physical health.
Henny said: ‘There have been huge advances in the treatment and care of people with cancer including some really exciting advances in personalised medicine like CAR-T.
‘There are other reasons to be positive - we now understand how important one point of contact is for patients and there's a commitment to ensuring access to Clinical Nurse Specialists in the NHS Long Term Plan. There's also more focus on the importance of psychological support around cancer care. We are listening to what patients need and care about.
‘A haematology clinical nurse specialist in the audience thanked the panel for recognising the value of the vital work they do every day. At Anthony Nolan, our ambition is that everyone receives the care and support they need after a stem cell transplant, for as long as necessary and no matter where they live.
‘Healthcare needs to become more dynamic to respond to scientific advances and to listen to patients and their experience.
‘We’re committed and will continue to work with patients to deliver the services and carry out the research needed to save and improve the lives of more people who receive stem cell transplants to treat their blood cancer or blood disorder.'