New Cancer Drugs Fund guidance launched by government

The government has released new guidance on the Cancer Drugs Fund that aims to make it easier for patients to access lifesaving treatments.

Following consultation with NHS staff on existing guidelines issued in 2011, the Department of Health has revised its advisory document to better take into account public feedback from cancer charities.

The changes made will speed up applications for treatment, as patients will not normally need to go through the primary care trust funding processes prior to applying to the Cancer Drugs Fund.

In addition, an audit of the fund is set to be carried out, which will provide evidence on drugs funded through the scheme for the benefit of wider NHS practice.

Health minister Lord Howe said: "Our priority is to ensure that cancer patients get the drugs their doctors believe are best for them."

Earlier this month, it was announced that centres in London and Manchester will be providing a cutting-edge cancer treatment called proton beam therapy, following a 250 million pound government investment.