Perspective
Open access CC BY NC ND
Volume 224 - Published ahead of Issue 10
From Ambition to Action: Closing Policy, Equity and Implementation Gaps in the Australian Cancer Plan's ‘Enhanced Consumer Experience’
Authors: Carla Thamm, Elise Button, Oluwaseyifunmi A. Agbejule, Reegan Knowles, Karen van Gorp, Mark B. Pinkham, Meinir Krishnasamy, Alexandra L. McCarthy, Raymond J. Chan
Correspondence: carla.thamm@flinders.edu.au
Med J Aust 2026 || doi: 10.5694/mja2.70317
Published online: 14 October 2026
Published online: 14 October 2026
Abstract
Despite advances in cancer treatment, many Australians experience fragmented, poorly coordinated care, particularly those who are most disadvantaged. Strategic Objective 2 of the Australian Cancer Plan commits to improving consumer experience through person-centred, culturally safe, coordinated care across the continuum, yet implementation remains inconsistent. This perspective article examines key challenges, including siloed services, inequitable access to navigation and supportive care and poorly actioned experience measures. We propose scalable solutions: patient decision support tools, equity-oriented navigation and real-time experience measures. Realising this vision requires sustained investment strategies and system integration.
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