The expert group on the future development of radiotherapy services commissioned an independent survey of the priorities of patients in the Republic and their experiences of existing services.
Those questioned rated the opportunity to receive the highest level of patient care as the most important factor in cancer treatment.
Obtaining information about their condition was rated next in importance and the quality of communication with medical and other health board staff and a reduction in waiting time between diagnosis and treatment were also rated as important.
Surprisingly, close geographical access to a treatment centre rated 13 out of 15 preferences among those surveyed. This finding contradicts anecdotal evidence that cancer patients are inconvenienced by the journey times required to access radiotherapy services at present.
The independent research into patients priorities was carried out using focus groups followed by a postal questionnaire to patients currently undergoing treatment.
Patients at St Luke's Hospital, Dublin, rated the best aspects of the existing service as "hospital staff" and "being treated alongside others with a similar illness".
The perceived worst aspects of existing care included "machines breaking down", "receiving information about illness/prognosis" and "waiting in hospital for treatment". The patient study identified "the development of more patient friendly transport" as part of the solution for those who have to travel long distances to a treatment centre.