Publish date: 11 December 2024

The 'Fundamentals of Cancer Care' book will significantly benefit both cancer patients and healthcare staff by improving the quality of care through enhanced education and training. For patients, the book ensures that cancer nurse specialists and care coordinators are well-versed in both the theoretical and practical aspects of cancer care, from understanding cancer biology to implementing effective treatment modalities. This leads to more informed decision-making, accurate interventions, and personalised care, ultimately improving patient outcomes and experiences.

For staff, the book serves as an essential resource, supporting continuous professional development across all stages of their careers—pre-registration, post-registration, and through ‘top-up’ programs. By aligning with educational frameworks like the Aspirant Cancer Career Education and Development Framework (ACCEND), it equips staff with the latest knowledge and practices, enhancing their confidence and competence in delivering care. The resource also promotes consistency in care standards across the service, resulting in more cohesive teamwork and optimise patient pathways.

While NHS provision ensures basic training and development for staff, this book offers an enhanced, comprehensive resource specifically tailored to the complexities of cancer care. As such, this resource fosters excellence in cancer care and helps advance patient outcomes in ways that core NHS resources alone may not fully achieve, thus enriching the care environment and the professional growth of staff. Overall, the book will enrich both patient care and professional development, ensuring that cancer care services remain evidence-based, compassionate, and highly effective.