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With an estimated 3.5 million people in the UK living with cancer (Macmillian), many of us will be affected by cancer at some point throughout our lives – whether that is personally or with the diagnosis of a loved one. Continued advancements in medical treatments, awareness campaigns and improvements in public knowledge surrounding preventative measures for some forms of cancer aim to reduce this number however, cancer continues to be a disease that people often dread to discuss.

Today marks the start of the latest campaign by World Cancer Day, United By Unique. Highlighting the fact that every experience with cancer is unique and that, ultimately, there needs to be a shift in focus to see the person as more than just a patient. 

Whilst medical treatment is essential for the physical care of an individual, behind every diagnosis there Is a person who has lived a rich life. A life full of love, relationships gained and lost, a catalogue of experiences that have made them into who they are today. Through providing a people-centric approach to cancer care, we can create a care plan that tailors to an individual’s needs in a more compassionate way – ultimately leading to the best health outcomes. So, how does people-centred care work? 

1)        It’s about teamwork.

People-centred care flips healthcare on its head. Instead of focusing on just diseases, it puts people front and centre. It is about forming a long-lasting relationship between people, providers and overarching healthcare systems to provide care plans which match the patient’s overall lifestyle. By seeing everyone as unique, listening with empathy, and helping them stay in control of their care decisions, individuals can experience greater levels of satisfaction with the care they receive. 

2)         It’s about connection.

Care doesn’t just happen in clinics—it lives in relationships. This approach involves families and communities, knowing that stronger social ties mean better, more compassionate care.

3)        It’s about community.

People aren’t just patients. Involvement from local communities, social schemes and governing bodies can improve health literacy, build self-confidence, and make sure health systems genuinely work for the people they serve. This can be done through the provision of transport solutions, community run support services or public health initiatives to name but a few.

What’s more, it works. An increased uptick in a people-centred care approach has been seen year on year and has had an impact on both treatment and recovery. Even the World Health Organisation has stated that developing integrated people-centred care systems can have “the potential to generate significant benefits to the health and healthcare of all people.”  Studies on this have shown that it can: 

• Lead to a higher quality of care and greater trust in doctors
• Improve overall satisfaction amongst both patients and families
• Improve the overall morale of healthcare workers
• Reduce pre-existing disparities in access to healthcare services, allowing everyone to receive the care they need, when they need it. 

World Cancer Day has outlined its three-year roadmap for this campaign which explores how they will explore the stories of those living with cancer, transform them into powerful advocacy tools to influencer policymakers and ultimately ensure any progress made is sustainable and long-lasting. 

As a company working within the healthcare sector, and with healthcare professionals daily, we are fully invested in ensuring everyone can receive a healthcare plan that is specifically tailored to an individual’s needs – placing empathy and expertise at the forefront of everything we do. Though we know facing cancer can be a challenging prospect, just know you are not alone. 

Below we have linked free-to-access resources which provide advice advise and support if you have been affected by cancer.

Macmillan Cancer Support

CoppaFeel!

Prostate Cancer UK

Cancer Research UK