NHS cancer revolution

New diagnosis system set to reduce delays in treatment

- BY MIKEY SMITH Deputy Political Editor

HEALTH Secretary Wes Streeting says upgrading NHS cancer care from a service that uses fax machines to a new tech-led system will revolutionise patient care.

The scheme, called Cancer 360, will be rolled out across the health service after a successful trial.

Mr Streeting says it will slash treatment delays and waiting times over the next decade as well as ensure early signs of the killer disease do not get missed.

The system, piloted at the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, will do away with old-fashioned written notes and bring every patient's data - including test results, appointment details and treatments together so clinicians can see all the key information they need at once.

Mr Streeting said: "I know from personal experience how important a quick diagnosis is. I went into A&E with kidney stones but thanks to a meticulous doctor, I came out with a cancer diagnosis.

"That is the best of the NHS in action - and that's why I am taking the best of the NHS to the rest of the NHS."

Cancer 360 will also help medics prioritise those most in need and see patients quicker.