GCR was invited to present at the annual UK Imaging & Oncology (UKIO) congress, the largest imaging and oncology event in the UK. The congress provides a valuable opportunity to connect with professionals, offering continuing professional development, and delegate-focused education. GCR was privileged to be invited by Radiotherapy UK and featured in the only radiotherapy session at the conference.
Sarah Quinlan, Director, Radiotherapy UK, summarized the session:
“Our aim is obviously to improve things for cancer patients. That's what this is all about. It's about making things better so that cancer patients can live longer and live better.”
The speakers included in this session shared diverse perspectives from the radiotherapy community, keeping that goal in mind. They focused on ways to improve outcomes for patients who need access to radiotherapy in the UK, and globally.
Katie Wakeham, GCR RT Essential Standards chair, and co-author of the document, “World-class Radiotherapy in the UK: Right Patient, Right Treatment, Right Time” said:
“This vision was designed that it should allow us to recognize and achieve the potential of radiotherapy to cure more cancer. The drivers for that were for patients to have timely access to the right radiotherapy treatment through innovation of care, and that the vision would support not only patients, but also healthcare workers.”
She discussed this vision document, highlighting key themes such as leadership, equitable access to radiotherapy, workforce sustainability, data collection, research funding, and sustainable investment.
Darien Laird, GCR Executive Director presented on “the global perspective”. She shared the need for global collaboration in radiotherapy, focusing on integrating MedTech technologies, precision medicine, and data and AI to enhance treatment outcomes.
“This is an opportunity for us to build better together. And we love this catchphrase at the Global Coalition for Radiotherapy, because as we're working together, we can improve the lives of patients and the outcomes for those who are needing access to radiotherapy.”
Pat Price, GCR Chair of the board, and Radiotherapy UK Chair, sat down with the hosts of RadChat Jo McNamara and Naman Julka-Anderson, for a Fireside Chat. She shared her passion for advocacy work, and discussed what needs to change in order for patients to get the best radiotherapy treatments, when they need it.
When asked about how people can make a difference, Professor Price said:
“So if we all work together, then we can speak out with one voice and really exemplify it. Even straightforward things, retweeting, social media, all the things we do, you know, get involved. You can all make a difference every single day, you know. All you have to do is say it to one person, who might then tell their MP, who might be best friends with the next health secretary, you know, and we can make a real big difference.”
The meeting concluded with a panel discussion where speakers addressed audience questions. The speakers expressed hope and optimism for the future.
The insights shared at the UKIO Congress strengthen our commitment to creating a more connected and efficient cancer care continuum. By leveraging advanced technologies and building global partnerships, we aim to make significant strides in the fight against cancer.
Watch an edited version of the session, featuring Darien Laird and Pat Price:
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