Macmillan Cancer Support have released a new report, Voices from the frontline: challenges facing cancer clinical nurse specialists right now which draws on the experiences of specialists and lead cancer nurses to explore the barriers nurses face in accessing continuing professional development and the impact this has on patient care and the sustainability of the specialist nursing workforce.
The cancer workforce is struggling to meet current requirements, let alone prepare for increasing future demand. As more people are being diagnosed with cancer, and more people are living longer with more complex conditions, the role of the specialist cancer nurse in supporting them navigate complex care and support pathways cannot be underestimated. But this is a workforce under strain.
Macmillan want to see a strategic approach to workforce planning, training and education; so that we have the right number of NHS and care professionals with the right skills; so that everyone with cancer has the highest standard of coordinated care and support during and after treatment.