Perhaps most importantly, radiation therapy device manufacturers must recognize that innovating technology isn’t enough. Rather, they must recognize that the approval of a new technology is a step in a longer and more complex process for improving care for cancer patients, rather than an end goal. New technologies only improve human health when they are broadly and equitably available to all patients who may benefit from them. A growing body of data makes it abundantly clear that geography, socioeconomic status, insurance coverage, education, and language all play critical roles in – and can serve as significant barriers – to connecting cancer patients with optimized care. Effectively addressing the global cancer epidemic requires that cancer care innovators focus not only on what goes on inside their design labs and manufacturing facilities but also on how their products are used in real-world settings to bring hope to patients with cancer.

About the author: Gustaf Salford is the president and CEO of Elekta.

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