Unique cancer journeys in rural Wales: GatewayC insights and resources

Published 12/02/2026

Every cancer journey is different. That is the powerful message behind this year’s World Cancer Day theme, “United by Unique” - a reminder that while cancer affects millions, no two patient experiences are the same. For clinicians working in primary and community care, recognising and responding to these unique journeys is central to the care they deliver.

Reflecting this theme, GatewayC, the free cancer learning and development programme for primary and community care clinicians, has released a new bonus episode of the GPs Talk Cancer podcast, focusing on the experiences of cancer patients living in rural Wales.

Hosted by practising GPs, the discussion is joined by Dr Elaine Hampton, a GP and GP facilitator in cancer survival services in North Wales. Drawing on case studies, the conversation brings together both clinician and patient perspectives, offering practical insights into how primary and community care teams can navigate challenges while maintaining continuity and compassion.

Importantly, the episode does not stop at describing the problem. It focuses on practical approaches that can make a difference in day-to-day practice, including:

• Supporting patients who face social, geographical and logistical challenges
• The value of streamlined referral pathways
• The role of “one-stop” clinics in improving patient experience and efficiency
• How GPs and community clinicians can advocate for and guide patients through complex systems

This new podcast forms part of a wider suite of free, accredited educational resources available through GatewayC, designed to support cancer diagnosis and better outcomes for patients. The programme equips primary and community care clinicians with the skills to recognise subtle or non-specific red flags and strengthen clinical decision-making.

GatewayC offers over 30 hours of CPD, delivered through flexible learning formats including structured online courses, live and on-demand webinars, podcasts and documentary-style videos. Content is broken into bite-sized modules, allowing busy clinicians to learn around existing workloads, with lifetime access so resources can be revisited whenever a refresher is needed.

Listen to the podcast episode:
https://link.gatewayc.org.uk/wcdwalesbonuspod

Register for GatewayC:
https://link.gatewayc.org.uk/wcdwalesregister