The ambition set out in the NHS Long Term Plan is that by 2028 the proportion of cancers diagnosed at stages 1 and 2 in England will increase from around 50% to 75%. CMCA recognises that primary care plays a key part to help achieve improved early diagnosis through referral practice and encouraging participation in the national cancer screening programmes.

The programme will principally aim to engage with those working in primary care across Cheshire and Merseyside to support with the early diagnosis agenda. It will do this through three main objectives, which are outlined as:-

• Supporting Primary Care Networks (PCNs) with the cancer element of the PCN DES and QOF by facilitating and providing practical support with implementing evidence-based interventions to achieve cancer-related objectives
• Leading the development and implementation of three structured cancer communities of practice across Cheshire and Merseyside
• Developing and delivering the primary care components of the new Cancer Academy which will act as a C&M repository and delivery arm for cancer education in C&M

As the programme develops, it is important for us to engage with those in primary care roles to understand ongoing work related to cancer and early diagnosis in PCNs and communities.

We are asking colleagues in these roles to complete a short survey for CMCA to better understand how we can support primary care across Cheshire and Merseyside with the cancer agenda. This will enable us to provide the most relevant education, resources and support in delivering the implementation of the PCN DES and helping primary care with cancer related work.  

We are very grateful for your input and a big thank you for all your work in supporting our communities.

If you have any suggestions or would like to get in touch with the CMCA Primary Care Engagement Team, please email ccf-tr.cmcaprimarycareengagement@nhs.net and a member of the team will be in touch.