Dorset Cancer Network

Who we are

A cancer network is a collaborative group that brings together organisations within the NHS and beyond. The organisations in the network work together to provide high-quality cancer services at all stages of the cancer journey, reflecting the needs of patients using them.

Cancer networks are responsible for implementing national cancer policy detailed in the NHS Cancer Plan, the Cancer Reform Strategy and most recently Improving Outcomes: A Strategy for Cancer.

Dorset Cancer Network was established in 2000 and is made up of the following organisations:

Primary care trusts

Acute hospital trusts

Voluntary sector organisations

The cancer network also works very closely with patients and carers through the Dorset Cancer Network Patient Partnership Panel.

We are supported by a management team which is responsible for governance of the network and the implementation of national requirements and local policies agreed by the network board. This is achieved by providing leadership, coordination and facilitation to the organisations within the network.

What we do

The Dorset Cancer Network work programme covers the whole patient pathway. The following are some examples of our recent projects:

Prevention

lung and bowel cancer awareness videos for the Life Channel in GP surgeries and the internet
changing attitudes towards sunbed use amongst teenagers and young adults in Dorset

Diagnosis

implementing a paper-free pathology reporting system across Dorset
supporting local cytology with meeting the 14-day national turnaround target for cervical screening results

Treatment

development of a radiotherapy services strategic plan across Dorset
supporting the implementation of the transforming inpatient care agenda
reducing delays in diagnosis and treatment for lung cancer patients

Living with Cancer

Nordic walking training programme for women following breast cancer treatment

End of Life Care

end-of-life communication skills project