In January 2026, Austria introduced the National Cancer Framework Programme 2026–2035, a strategic document outlining national priorities for cancer prevention, early detection, treatment, and survivorship care over the next decade. The programme was commissioned by the Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection (BMASGPK) and developed by the Austrian National Public Health Institute (GÖG). It replaces the previous framework covering 2014–2025 and responds to new scientific evidence and technological advances, as well as evolving population needs, demographic change, increasing incidence, and the growing number of people living long term with and after cancer.
Strategic orientation and governance
The framework is not legally binding but a high level strategic document that provides guidance for national and regional health system actors. Its development followed a broad participatory process involving more than 100 experts from clinical care, public health, research, administration and civil society. The process also included international peer review and consultation through a national sounding board. Patient organizations were extensively involved throughout and reported that many of their proposals were incorporated into the final framework.
Implementation will occur within Austria’s established multi level governance structure, requiring coordinated action between federal authorities, social insurance institutions and the States. The programme emphasizes the need for long-term intersectoral cooperation, including areas outside the health system such as education and labour.
Strengthening prevention and organized screening
The framework places strong emphasis on primary prevention as a core public health function. Key priorities include strengthening tobacco control, promoting physical activity and healthy nutrition, improving vaccination coverage (for example, HPV), and integrating cancer-related prevention goals into broader health promotion strategies.
In the area of early detection, the programme reinforces Austria’s commitment to organized, quality-assured screening programmes. Any future expansion of screening initiatives will require evidence review through the National Screening Committee. The framework also calls for multilingual low-threshold information materials to increase participation and reduce inequalities in access.
Reinforcing multidisciplinary oncology services
A key system-wide objective is to strengthen multidisciplinary teams across the cancer care continuum. This includes expanding and further professionalising cancer nurses, as well as strengthening roles in social work, medical documentation, and care or study coordination. Standardized tumour documentation and the continued development of clinical cancer registries are intended to improve data quality, transparency and quality assurance.
The framework also highlights the importance of clearly defined patient pathways to reduce fragmentation in care. Navigation and coordination functions (“Lotsenfunktionen”) are to be expanded to help patients move more easily across sectors and institutions. Improving cross institutional information flow, especially between hospitals, is identified as a central priority.
Survivorship and long-term follow-up
Given that many forms of cancer have become chronic conditions, the programme emphasizes the need for structured long-term follow-up and rehabilitation services. Survivorship care models are to be further developed, including initiatives such as the pilot Survivorship Passport for children and adolescents. Psycho-oncological support and palliative care remain integral components of comprehensive cancer care.
Outlook
The programme aims to provide a shared strategic direction rather than prescribe specific implementation measures. Its success will depend on coordinated action across Austria’s federalized health system, as well as the continued engagement of clinical, public health and patient stakeholders.