To ask the Minister of Health to detail whether all people starting cancer treatment have (i) their health status wholly assessed; and (ii) an individualised plan created to mitigate potential late effects and consequences of their treatment.

Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts assess patients throughout their cancer pathway, including prior to the commencement of treatment. The nature of these assessments is determined by the individual's diagnosis, proposed treatment and clinical needs, and may include clinical, physical, psychological, practical and supportive care considerations. In addition, many patients are offered a Holistic Needs Assessment to help identify and address wider care and support needs. These assessments inform decisions regarding treatment and ongoing care.

While many patients receive personalised advice, interventions and follow-up arrangements aimed at reducing the risk of treatment-related complications and supporting recovery, a universal regional model under which all individuals commencing cancer treatment receive a comprehensive late effects assessment and an individualised late effects management plan has not yet been fully implemented.

The Northern Ireland Cancer Strategy 2022-2032 includes an action to develop a regional, multidisciplinary approach to the identification and management of people at risk of late effects and consequences of cancer treatment. Progress has been made through a number of local and tumour-specific initiatives; however, full implementation of this action will require further development of workforce capacity and investment across nursing, allied health professions and other specialist services.