Macmillan Cancer Support responds to the National Cancer Patient Experience Survey 2017
Originally published: 27 July 2018
Responding to the National Cancer Patient Experience Survey 2017, Dr Moira Fraser, Director of Policy at Macmillan Cancer Support, says:
“We welcome the publication today of NHS England’s annual National Cancer Patient Experience Survey. The only way we can ensure cancer patients get the best care is by talking to them and finding out where improvements need to be made. This survey is a key tool in understanding what patients really think about cancer services and must continue in future years so services can establish where patients’ experience of care is not as good as it should be.
“Whilst it is good to see that cancer patients broadly have a positive experience of cancer care, a closer look at this year’s survey reveals some concerning issues. It is deeply worrying that just over half of patients were definitely told about the long-term side effects of treatment (55.5%)ᶦ and that many patients were not given information about how to receive financial help or other benefits (58.2%)ᶦᶦ. Far too few patients reported being given a care plan (34.9%)ᶦᶦᶦ which is which is really important in helping them understand and feel more in control of their treatment and recovery. Cancer affects everyone differently in countless, complex ways — from mental health issues to money worries — so it is imperative that patients feel fully informed about both their diagnosis and what support is available to help them cope.
“Combined with the fact that cancer waiting time targets for starting treatment after an urgent referral have not been met for 29 months in a row, it’s clear that there is much room for improvement in cancer care. Not only can a long wait to start treatment be incredibly stressful, there is also a possibility that your health will deteriorate in the meantime. Which is why it’s of the utmost importance that patients receive the best quality care possible from the initial get-go.”
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About Macmillan Cancer Support
Being told ‘you have cancer’ can affect so much more than your health — it can also affect your family, your job, even your ability to pay the bills. But you’re still you. We get that. And, after over 100 years of helping people through cancer, we get what’s most important: that you’re treated as a person, not just a patient.
It’s why we’ll take the time to understand you and all that matters to you, so we can help you get the support you need to take care of your health, protect your personal relationships and deal with money and work worries.
We’re here to help you find your best way through from the moment of diagnosis, so you’re able to live life as fully as you can. For information, support or just someone to talk to, call 0808 808 00 00 or visit macmillan.org.uk.
Notes to editors
For further information, please contact:
Lyndsey White, Media and PR Officer, Macmillan Cancer Support
020 7840 4870 (out of hours 07801 307068).
References
ᶦ NHS England, 2018. National Cancer Patient Experience Survey, 2017. Q15 ‘Before you started treatment(s), were you also told about any side effects of the treatment that could affect you in the future rather than straight away? 50.9% responded Yes, definitely. 26.7% responded Yes, to some extent.
ᶦᶦ NHS England, 2018. National Cancer Patient Experience Survey, 2017. Q22 ‘When you were told you had cancer, were you given written information about the type of cancer you had?’ 64.6% responded Yes, and it was easy to understand.
ᶦᶦᶦ NHS England, 2018. National Cancer Patient Experience Survey, 2017. Q55 ‘Have you been given a care plan?’ 27.8% responded Yes.

