Improving cancer services and survival in New Zealand

Abstract

A growing gap in cancer survival is emerging between New Zealand and comparator countries such as Australia and Canada. While survival rates are impacted by early detection, receipt of high quality and timely anti-cancer treatment is clearly key. Several clinical, policy, and structural factors will influence the likelihood of receipt of optimal care. These include geographic access to treatment, waiting times, access to specialized care, and systems performance management and monitoring. We consider several of the structural issues in New Zealand affecting surgical, medical and radiation oncology and child cancer, and explore some possible solutions.