In the latest episode of Paul Talks Science, I had the privilege of interviewing Gemma Peters, Chief Executive of Macmillan Cancer Support, on the sidelines of the World Cancer Congress 2024. Our conversation focused on a crucial topic: addressing inequities in cancer care and ensuring that no one is left behind.
Macmillan Cancer Support, a cornerstone of cancer care in the UK for over 110 years, has long been committed to community-led approaches to support people with cancer. Gemma shared how the organization has invested over a billion pounds in the National Health Service (NHS), helping to provide crucial posts and direct support to millions. Yet, she candidly acknowledged the persistent gaps in care, particularly for marginalized communities.
Equity in Innovation
A recurring theme in our discussion was the importance of designing innovations in cancer care with equity in mind. Gemma emphasized that while breakthroughs in treatments and technologies are exciting, their benefits often fail to reach the communities most in need. To counter this, Macmillan invests in health startups through its Impact Innovation Fund, ensuring that these innovations are designed to be accessible and impactful for all.
“We need to design healthcare innovations for the people least likely to benefit first,” Gemma remarked. This forward-thinking approach aims to close the widening gap between those with access to cutting-edge care and those who face systemic barriers.
The Power of Partnership
Macmillan’s success lies in its ability to partner with organizations that have established trust within local communities. Gemma shared a compelling example of their work with fishing communities along the UK coast, where cancer outcomes are disproportionately poor. By bringing healthcare professionals to the docks and meeting people where they are, Macmillan is slowly transforming health narratives in these tight-knit yet underserved communities.
Lessons from COVID-19
We also reflected on the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on cancer care. While the rapid mobilization of resources during the pandemic demonstrated the potential for swift action, it also exposed the risk of exacerbating existing inequities. Gemma stressed the need to apply similar urgency to cancer care while ensuring that no community is left behind.
A Hopeful Future
As we wrapped up, Gemma expressed optimism about the future. She believes that the convergence of technological innovation, heightened awareness of inequities, and a stronger commitment to patient-centered care could make the next decade transformative for cancer support.
This episode offers valuable insights for anyone interested in the intersection of innovation, equity, and healthcare. Listen now to hear Gemma’s inspiring vision for a more inclusive and compassionate approach to cancer care.
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