MP highlights two cancer concerns in House of Commons
Today in the House of Commons, during Health Questions, John Baron MP questioned both the Secretary of State (Rt Hon Jeremy Hunt MP) and the Health Minister (Norman Lamb MP) over concerns to cancer patients. The first related to the importance of encouraging earlier diagnosis, and the second related to the replacement to the Cancer Drugs Fund (called ‘value-based pricing’) due January 2014.
John asked,
“The Cancer Drugs Fund has been a great success, helping perhaps up to 25,000 patients. But the present negotiations between the Government and the pharmaceutical industries as to its replacement – value-based pricing – are causing real concern to patients and clinicians. For example, will existing medicines be available to new patients under the new system, and what guidance is being given to local CDFs to wind down? Given the timeframe, can we have clarity?”
Norman Lamb MP, in responding, confirmed this was an important issue which the Government needs to address.
John spoke with the Minister after questions, and they have agreed to meet to discuss matters further.
Ends
Word Count: 191
Date: 26th February 2013
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