The Federation of Associations of Cancer Patients (FABC) announces that it will sue the Ministry of Health and start protests in defense of the National Plan for the Prevention and Control of Cancer (PNCC).

“The day of cancer patients was overshadowed by the uncertainty of the implementation of the Plan against cancer, the uncertainty generated by the statements of the Minister of Health. He argues that the plan, which was voted unanimously in Romania’s parliament and became law in November 2022, is not a complete plan. We remind you that during the development of this plan, experts from the Ministry of Health, from SNOMR, famous surgeons, radiation therapists and other liberal professions, a parliamentary group led by Professor Dr. Patricio Ahimas-Kadariou participated. Before the law, he was transparent for 5 months, during which Mr. Rafila did not comment on the plan, even participated in its publication. The conclusion is obvious – the minister’s arrogance is above the law,” said a press release published by FABC on Sunday and quoted by Agerpres.

The Federation of Cancer Survivors Associations announces the organization of the 15th FABC National Cancer Survivors Day Conference, June 1-4, in the context of the new law of the same name.

In this context, the FABC decided to protect the National Plan for the Prevention and Control of Cancer “at all costs” by suing the Ministry of Health and starting street protests.

“In addition to topics of specific oncology interest, with the support of patient care professionals, the FABC has decided, through the voice of its member associations, to defend the PNPCC at all costs by going to court with the Ministry of Health, after the expiration of 180 days, during which the Ministry was required to write regulations and implement a legislative plan, followed by street protests. FABC will no longer allow any minister to sign death certificates for cancer patients in Romania! We are tired of losing 20,000 patients every year to avoidable deaths and having 48% more deaths than the European average! The pride and cynicism of the Ministry of Health brings 152 victims every day. If this is the case, we will transfer the drama of cancer patients from Romania to the European Parliament, as well as to the ECtHR,” the statement reads.

During FABC’s national conference, presidential adviser Dr. Diana Loretta-Pown said the plan is a step toward normalcy.

“The action on the development and as soon as possible entry into force of the National Plan for the prevention and control of cancer, as a result of a long collective effort, I believe, gives guarantees to the citizens that it is possible to work beyond all odds for a sustainable vision in the health care system. As you know, the President of Romania took a personal part in this case. We are in the midst of implementing this critical plan, which will turn into reality the unmet basic needs for services that have burdened the lives of patients for many years. The National Cancer Prevention and Control Plan is a step towards a normal life. Support measures for the various components can certainly be considered at a later stage, but we will not be able to build by always starting from scratch,” said Professor Dr. Diana Loretta-Pown, according to a press release.

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