PRESS RELEASE
Data: 24.07.2023
The Romanian Government passed the rules of the National Cancer Control Plan today, marking a significant step forward in the fight against this devastating disease. This decision follows the efforts of FACIAS as a representative of civil society and therefore of citizens.
According to the European Commission's country report, cancer kills 48% more people in Romania than the European average. Despite this serious public health crisis, until recently the government seemed less concerned about saving lives than it should have been. The National Cancer Prevention and Control Plan in Romania, which the government promulgated with much fanfare, remained just a nice promise on paper.
In this context, FACIAS has taken a stand by filing a preliminary complaint and asking the Government and the Ministry of Health to act immediately and implement the rules of the National Plan for the Prevention and Control of Cancer. Finally, the Government today issued implementing rules, unlocking funding for genetic diagnosis and personalised treatment services and ensuring access to state-of-the-art therapy for all cancer patients.
The government is responsible for providing adequate health care
FACIAS salutes this decision and underlines the importance of continuing efforts for the effective implementation of the National Cancer Control Plan. It is essential that all cancer patients are included in the new diagnosis and treatment programmes and to ensure that the healthcare system is properly organised to meet their needs.
This decision is a major victory for FACIAS and for all cancer patients in Romania. It is a concrete example of how civil society representatives can influence public policy for the benefit of citizens.
FACIAS reaffirms its commitment to continue monitoring the implementation of these rules and to ensure that cancer patients in Romania receive the care they need.
The Foundation For The Defense Of Citizens Against State Abuses (FACIAS) has been seeking since 2008 to ensure transparency in the functioning of state institutions as a principle of democracy and the rule of law and defends the rights of Romanian citizens.
We are monitoring the work of state institutions and informing the public about it, in order to raise citizens' awareness of their rights and the possibility for them to take part in the activities of public institutions, directly or through non-governmental organisations.
FACIAS PRESS OFFICE