— Isabelle Laurence, Ema Slapikaite, Amanda Whittal
How do we ensure cancer care systems are ready to meet rising patient needs both equitably and sustainably?
ONWARD (Oncology Needs, Workforce, Access, Research & Disparities): Driving Equitable Access and System Readiness in Cancer Care examines the barriers that continue to limit timely patient access to cancer innovation, despite significant advances in diagnosis and treatment. Drawing on global evidence and country-level examples, the paper highlights challenges across healthcare systems, workforce capacity, diagnostics, data infrastructure, reimbursement processes, and funding models. It also explores practical approaches to strengthening system readiness and calls for coordinated action among policymakers, healthcare leaders, industry, and patient advocates to ensure that innovation translates into equitable and meaningful benefits for patients worldwide.
