Making cancer care safer: what we’ve learnt from our investigations (HSSIB, 4 February 2026)

Summary

The Health Services Safety Investigations Body (HSSIB) has carried out seven patient safety investigations that have touched upon care for patients with cancer, to understand why issues occur and how the healthcare system can improve.

Delayed or missed cancer diagnosis can have life-changing consequences for patients and their families. On World Cancer Day 2026, Scott Hislop, Deputy Director of Investigations, draws together what was found and highlights the recommendations that aim to make cancer care safer.