National bowel cancer screening program (NBCSP)
Background: phase one (27 January 2007 – 30 June 2008)
As part of its Strengthening Cancer Care initiative in the 2005-06 budget, the Australian Government announced it would phase in a national bowel cancer screening program (NBCSP). Phase one of the NBCSP commenced in Australia in August 2006, with Western Australia commencing in January 2007. Phase one concluded on 30 June 2008.
Phase one targeted those Australians turning 55 and 65 years of age between 1 May 2006 and 30 June 2008, identified by Medicare Australia. Approximately 100,000 Western Australians were invited to participate during phase one, receiving a free faecal occult blood test (FOBT) kit in the post. The invitation process in WA was staggered, with roll out occurring geographically, until the entire state was involved.
In addition, the WA Government committed to support the introduction of the NBCSP in our state. The WA Department of Health established the Bowel Cancer Screening Implementation Team (the bowel team) within the WA Cancer and Palliative Care Network, to collaborate with the Australian Government to roll the NBCSP out across WA.
The bowel team also works in partnership with key stakeholders across the state, including Cancer Council WA and the WA General Practice Network, to support health professionals and community education relating to the NBCSP.