Aim
To describe the development and application of a co-designed framework to identify priorities for breast cancer service improvement and policy reform through Breast Cancer Network Australia's (BCNA) 2026–2030 Policy & Advocacy Strategy. The framework was designed to support transparent, evidence-informed priority setting in a complex cancer care environment by integrating lived experience with clinical, research and health system perspectives.
Methods
BCNA developed a co-designed priority-setting framework in partnership with Consumer Representatives. The framework combined evidence synthesis, national consumer consultation and multidisciplinary stakeholder engagement. An anonymous national mixed-methods survey exploring experiences, unmet needs and priorities across the breast cancer continuum was co-designed with consumers following a rapid literature review. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively, while qualitative responses underwent thematic analysis. Findings were synthesised with consultations involving consumers, clinicians, researchers, policymakers and advocacy organisations to identify and prioritise opportunities for health service improvement and policy reform.
Results
The framework provides a structured, transparent approach to translating lived experience into priorities for improving cancer services and health policy. By integrating evidence from consumers, clinicians, researchers and policymakers, it identifies system-level gaps in care, strengthens the legitimacy of priority setting and supports evidence-informed decision-making in a rapidly evolving healthcare environment. The framework highlights areas with the greatest potential to improve equity, patient experience and access to high-quality breast cancer care. Final consultation findings and priority areas will be presented at the conference.
Conclusions
Consumer-informed priority setting is an important mechanism for improving cancer services in complex health systems. This co-designed framework provides a practical, transferable approach to integrating lived experience with evidence to inform health service planning, policy development and advocacy. The methodology has potential application across cancer services to strengthen person-centred care, improve equity and support more responsive health system improvement.