Melanoma and Skin Cancer Advocacy Network (MSCAN)
The Melanoma and Skin Cancer Advocacy Network Ltd (MSCAN) is an Australian nonprofit organisation focused on advocacy, research, and patient support for individuals affected by melanoma and other skin cancers. Registered with ABN 29635259497RR0001, MSCAN operates as a national, consumer-led charity dedicated to policy reform, equitable healthcare access, and public education on skin cancer prevention and management.

Mission and Activities
MSCAN's mission centers on representing patient voices, advancing innovative research, and influencing health policy to improve outcomes for Australians impacted by skin cancer. The organisation prioritizes three key areas:

• Advocacy and Policy Reform: MSCAN collaborates with government bodies, including the Parliamentary Friends of Melanoma and Skin Cancer, to promote equitable access to diagnosis, treatment, and care. It advocates for implementing a national targeted screening program and increased funding for skin cancer research[1][3][5].
• Research and Innovation: The organisation supports advancements in skin cancer prevention, diagnosis, and survivorship programs, with a focus on addressing disparities in regional and rural healthcare access[2][3].
• Patient Resources: MSCAN provides educational materials such as the Spot On Podcast and Spot On Resource to guide patients through diagnosis, treatment, and post-treatment challenges[2][3].

Governance and Leadership
Founded by Tamara Dawson, a melanoma survivor and advocate, MSCAN's board comprises individuals with expertise in patient advocacy, government policy, pharmaceuticals, and finance. Dawson established the organisation in response to gaps in patient support and systemic advocacy, leveraging her background in policy and corporate affairs to drive national change[5].

Collaborations
MSCAN partners with healthcare professionals, researchers, and international advocacy groups, including the Melanoma International Patient Advocates Coalition. These collaborations aim to align national efforts with global best practices in skin cancer care and research[3][5].

Values
The organisation operates under core principles of patient-centered care, dedication, innovation, collaboration, and integrity, ensuring that patient needs remain central to its advocacy and policy initiatives[1][5].

[1] https://mscan.org.au/about-us/ [2] https://mscan.org.au [3] https://mscan.org.au/advocacy-research/advocacy/ [4] https://mscan.org.au/mscno/ [5] https://mscan.org.au/about-us/our-team/