Thousands of cancer patients across the UK are set to receive faster and safer treatment thanks to the introduction of new radiotherapy machines at hospitals nationwide.
The government is funding 28 hospitals to receive advanced linear accelerator (LINAC) machines. These machines use modern technology to deliver more precise and efficient radiotherapy. In some cases, patients may need only half the number of hospital visits compared to traditional treatments.
The £70 million investment is part of the government’s broader Plan for Change, which aims to improve cancer care services. The upgraded machines will begin arriving in hospitals from August and are expected to ease pressure on waiting lists by reducing treatment delays.
Officials say that replacing old equipment will help prevent as many as 13,000 appointments from being lost due to machine breakdowns. By March 2027, the new machines are expected to deliver up to 27,500 additional cancer treatments per year. This includes helping 4,500 more patients begin treatment within 62 days of being referred—a key national cancer care target.
The new LINAC machines offer a safer and more accurate way to target cancer cells. They are designed to minimize damage to healthy tissues around a tumour. This precision is especially important for treating cancers in more difficult areas, such as the chest, abdomen, and pelvis.
Health officials believe this rollout will be a major step forward in improving outcomes for cancer patients across the country.
