What is the Mesothelioma Framework?

In February 2007 the Department of Health published new advice for NHS healthcare professionals in England on how to organise services and improve standards of care for people with mesothelioma and their families. These guidelines are known as the 'Mesothelioma Framework'.

This page explains how healthcare services in the NHS are organised for people with mesothelioma. It also describes the medical care you should expect - provided the Framework guidelines have been implemented by your local NHS - so that you can be sure you are receiving the best available care.

The Framework applies only to people living in England. However, the British Lung Foundation is pressing for comparable care standards to be introduced elsewhere in the UK. Although the developers of the Framework agree the guidelines are in the best interests of patients, it is not compulsory for local NHS organisations to implement them.

If you want to read the full Mesothelioma Framework, go here to view it on the Department of Health website or order the publication on 0870 155 5455.

The Framework has taken into account the key recommendations from the Mesothelioma Patients' Charter, which was developed by the British Lung Foundation in collaboration with people affected by mesothelioma and their families. It also takes into account other relevant medical and scientific evidence.