Ministry announces teen cancer service

Ministry of Health and CanTeen announce adolescent and young adult cancer service specifications

New Zealand’s leading cancer professionals have recognised adolescent and young people have specific and unique needs when it comes to cancer treatment.

The Ministry of Health and CanTeen today launched the Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Service Specification in a move to bridge the gap between the treatment of adult and paediatric cancer.

Until now, the treatment of adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer has tended to sit in the undefined space between paediatric and adult oncology.

The aim of the AYA Cancer Service Specification, which has been developed by a specialist group of health professionals, is to formally state the need for a mix of paediatric and adult cancer services for an adolescent.

For example, when a paediatric 'type' cancer occurs in a 21 year old the expertise is in paediatric oncology but the age appropriate care may best occur in an adult environment.

CanTeen CEO David Pearce says the move is a milestone step in cancer services for young people living with cancer.

“One of our key roles over the past 21 years has been to give a voice to young people aged 13 to 24 living with cancer. Our voice has been heard - the AYA Cancer Service Specification recognises that adolescents and young adults are at a unique time in their lives both physically and emotionally, which is extremely positive.”

Health Minister Tony Ryall says he knows that keeping teenagers in long term cancer treatment can be hard work which occasionally fails.

“I support any initiative, like this one, which helps teenagers in cancer treatment and helps improve long term health prospects.”

The AYA group was facilitated by the Ministry of Health and funded by the Ministry and relevant DHBs.

CanTeen has been a key influence, offering a specialised and enhanced focus from the patient’s point of view.

There will be a two year transition period before the Specification becomes mandatory during which time patients and health professionals can give feedback.

ENDS

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