Access to cutting edge personalised cancer treatments and the sharing of genetic testing information to further improve treatments are among the aims of the new Monash Partners Comprehensive Cancer Consortium (MPCCC)-led program.

In a stride towards equitable and advanced cancer care, The MPCCC, has launched an Australian first Fellows Program to address inequitable access to molecular testing in Victoria.

Of people living with malignant disease, one in five has a cancer affected by unique genetic mutations, that can indicate specific treatment options and trials. 

Unfortunately, many patients and doctors are unaware of how to access the molecular testing required to identify these mutations, leading to some patients missing out on the opportunity to receive effective therapies or to participate in clinical trials.

To address this critical gap, The MPCCC has strategically placed eight highly skilled and dedicated clinical oncology and pathology fellows across five leading cancer hospitals - The Alfred, Monash Health, Cabrini Health, Eastern Health and Peninsula Health.

MPCCC co-director and Director of Oncology at The Alfred, Professor Mark Shackleton, said that lack of awareness about and access to molecular testing was a big issue for those who didn’t live close to a big city hospital.

“The MPCCC fellows placed in each hospital are aiming to increase access to genomic testing and connect patients with cutting-edge clinical trials based on molecular results,” Professor Shackleton said.

“The MPCCC Fellows Program signifies a major stride forward in the field of precision medicine throughout Victoria. Through its dedicated Fellows and multifaceted approach, the program will help many patients receive better cancer care,” Professor Shackleton said.