In this section
Role and Purpose of the Clinical Reference Groups
The Cancer Clinical Reference Groups (CRGs) are the source of expert clinical and professional opinion from which advice is sought on a wide range of cancer services issues. CRGs adopt an evidence- based approach, incorporating national best-practice guidance into local practice to ensure common standards and pathways for cancer patients.
The role of the CRG is to ensure co-ordination of the cancer pathway and consistence of clinical practice irrespective of where treatment is provided.
This includes:
- Identifying and raising awareness of population needs
- Service monitoring including clinical performance and patient outcomes
- Workforce development
- Increasing research capacity
- Implementation of clinical guidelines
- Development of local pathways and service specifications
- Responding to concerns or inequalities raised through monitoring processes
- Advising on matters relating to service reconfiguration
Lancashire and South Cumbria Clinical Reference Groups
In Lancashire and South Cumbria Cancer CRGs are established for tumour-specific pathway which include:
- Acute Oncology
- Brain and Central Nervous System
- Breast
- Chemotherapy
- Colorectal
- CUP
- Gynae
- Haematology
- Head and Neck
- HPB
- Lung
- MSCC
- Psychology
- Sarcoma
- Skin
- Thyroid
- Upper GI
- Urology
Membership
The CRG should have active engagement of all MDT/nominated service leads from the constituent organisations in the Lancashire and South Cumbria Cancer Alliance. The groups are made up of health professionals from the Acute Trusts in the Strategic Clinical Network footprint
CRG Administrative Support
Key Contact
Rachel Ellis – Assistant Cancer and End of Life Education Manager (CRG Coordinator)
Email: Rachel.Ellis@LTHTR.nhs.uk
CRG meetings are held three-four times per year, with one meeting being an extended educational event. Additional meetings may be necessary for short term task and finish projects.
