COVID-19

COVID-19 dominated our health landscape from February 2020 when the first case was detected in Aotearoa.

Much work has been done across the entire cancer sector to ensure care has largely continued across this time. We acknowledge all those that have undergone treatment, and those who delivered cancer care over this time - it has taken bravery and determination.

Te Aho o Te Kahu provided guidance, support and monitoring of cancer care throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

We worked with clinicians and vaccine experts to develop clinical guidelines on vaccinating people with cancer and worked alongside cancer care sector partners to ensure key information reached patients. We set up a monitoring framework to identify how cancer services were being impacted by the pandemic and provide an up-to-date picture for the health sector to respond to.

The monitoring (link below) has shown that, in general, the cancer system operated well during the pandemic and has not worsened any existing inequities or created new ones. Where treatment has been impacted, we have worked with the sector to find solutions, with a particular focus on prioritising Māori and Pacific populations in any catch-up activities.

We are continuing to work with Te Whatu Ora to respond to the increased pressure on the health system following winter illnesses and COVID-19. We continue to support our clinical working groups with COVID- 19-related issues, such as the roll-out of new antiviral medications.