16 May 2014
The Breast Cancer Aotearoa Coalition (BCAC) is delighted Budget 2014 outlines increased funding to further improve cancer services for New Zealanders.
Yesterday’s Budget announced an additional $32.7 million over the next four years for cancer services.
In particular, BCAC applauds the funding allocated for specialist psychological staff and up to 20 cancer support workers who will ensure patients diagnosed with cancer and their families receive more support and counselling.
BCAC has repeatedly highlighted the need for better psychological services for breast cancer patients and their families so it is very encouraging to see the issue being addressed.
BCAC Chair Libby Burgess comments, “A breast cancer diagnosis brings a range of anxieties, including emotional and financial strain. We know that good psychological support can make a big difference to patients and their families.
“To have a specialist psychologist and more cancer support workers in each of the six cancer centres will certainly help to ensure cancer patients’ emotional well-being is assessed in a timely way and to provide them with the support they need,” Ms Burgess says.
She continues, “BCAC also welcomes the news that included in the additional funding is $5.3 million for breast and cervical screening programmes. The continued investment in the breast screening programme will give more women access to high quality screening services, and we know that early detection leads to better patient outcomes.”
More than 20,000 New Zealanders are diagnosed with cancer every year and this number is set to increase as the population ages.
