A NEW strategic GP role specialising in improving cancer education, earlier diagnosis and support has been introduced.

Dr Michaela Amann will cover the Hambleton, Richmondshire and Whitby areas and her role has been funded by Macmillan Cancer Support.

During 2014-15, 666 people per 100,000 across the areas were diagnosed with a new cancer - higher than the national average of 523.

In 2015, 55.5 per cent of cancers were diagnosed at an early stage - higher than the national average - but the ambition is to increase the figure to 62 per cent by 2021.

Clinical commissioning group chair Dr Charles Parker said: “The aim of the role is to drive improvements along the entire cancer pathway from prevention and early diagnosis through to better support for people living with and beyond cancer.

"This will involve providing education and knowledge within the wider health community to recognise early signs and symptoms of cancers, supporting earlier diagnosis reducing the amount of cancers that are diagnosed through an emergency route and consequently improving outcomes and experiences for patients and their families."

Dr Amann said: “After being in a very hands-on cancer role for a number of years, this is much more strategic giving me the opportunity to help develop cancer services.

Dr Amann is also a part-time GP partner at Stokesley Health Centre. Until recently, she was also a speciality doctor in the breast clinic at the Friarage Hospital in Northallerton.