There have always been inequalities in access to healthcare in particular cancer treatment across countries and regions in the world. The differences in regulatory drug approval process, drug pricing strategies and governmental healthcare expenditures are main reasons for such phenomena. We should stay aware of such nuance so that we can look at the most personalised therapy for our cancer patients, so that they can get receive the most appropriate and affordable treatment for their ever-changing diseases.
In this presentation, case sharing on how to alleviate the disparity in accessing to different targeted therapies and other personalised cancer treatment between Hong Kong and the mainland will be illustrated. Governmental and non-governmental strategies on access to some novel cancer therapies across the border will be discussed. Cross-border patient referral should also be streamlined to facilitate seamless and timely cancer care. The importance of personalised cancer medicine through multidisciplinary discussion and management as well as establishment of consensus statements and recommendation guidelines will also be emphasised.
