The Medway NHS Foundation Trust has seen a significant improvement in its liver cancer monitoring rates, increasing from 67 per cent to 90 per cent following the implementation of the InfoFlex system in August 2025. This digital tracking system is designed to ensure that adult patients requiring monitoring receive regular checks at the appropriate times, aiding in the early identification of liver cancer.
The enhanced surveillance programme provides greater reassurance to patients, offering the best possible opportunity for early diagnosis and access to treatment. This aligns with NHS guidance for regular checks for individuals at higher risk, including those with conditions such as cirrhosis, advanced liver fibrosis, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.
To coincide with Liver Cancer Awareness Month in October, the team will present their work at the British Association for the Study of the Liver (BASL) Annual Meeting on Thursday 8 October. They will showcase how the patient tracking system has facilitated more timely monitoring and earlier diagnoses. This initiative also contributed to the service achieving the Improving Quality in Liver Services (IQILS) Level 2 accreditation in November 2025.
“"For patients at increased risk of liver cancer, including those with cirrhosis, advanced liver fibrosis, hepatitis B and hepatitis C, regular monitoring can make a life-changing difference. This includes ultrasound scans and blood tests every six months to check for any early signs of cancer. Detecting cancer at an earlier stage often means patients have access to more treatment options and a much better chance of successful treatment. Our new system helps ensure patients receive the checks they need at the right time, giving them the best possible opportunity for an early diagnosis and access to treatment."
Liver cancer is the fastest-rising cause of cancer-related deaths in the UK, with approximately 6,200 diagnoses annually. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common type, accounting for about 85 per cent of cases. However, evidence indicates that only around one in five HCC cases are diagnosed at an early stage, underscoring the critical importance of effective surveillance for high-risk individuals.
The surveillance programme is a collaborative effort with the Kent and Medway Cancer Alliance. This alliance is working with other hospitals across Kent and Medway to enhance liver cancer surveillance and support earlier diagnosis. Dr Jonathan Bryant, Primary Care Clinical Lead for Cancer at the Kent and Medway Cancer Alliance, stated: “Earlier detection of liver cancer can save lives. By making sure patients receive regular checks at the right time, the team is helping more people get diagnosed earlier, access treatment sooner and improve their chances of a successful outcome.”
