You are referred urgently for tests by your GP (or other healthcare professional) on a two week wait referral to rule out cancer
GP or other healthcare professional refers onto a suspected cancer pathway: In the UK, suspected cancer referrals are treated as high priority. This means when cancer is suspected, then there is a faster route to get further tests and specialist advice. The suspected cancer referrals are also known as 2 week waits or target referrals.
What is an urgent cancer referral?
When cancer is suspected there is a fast route within the NHS to get further tests and specialist advice to rule out cancer. These are called 2 week wait referrals and you should be seen within 2 weeks of being referred. More and more people are getting diagnosed with cancer and the earlier we catch it the better the chances are of survival and quality of life. Most people who are referred by their GP on this route will NOT have cancer (9/10) and it is important that if your GP has referred you for this urgent pathway that you do make arrangements to attend.
- https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/cancer-symptoms/what-is-an-urgent-referral
When will my appointment take place?
You should receive your appointment to rule out suspected cancer, 2 weeks from the date that you were referred.
Where will my appointment be?
You can discuss which hospital you want to be referred to with your GP. Please note that some hospitals have more than one site where your appointment might take place. You will find this information on your appointment letter when you get it.
How will the appointment take place?
You may be sent directly for tests, or you might speak to a specialist first. Most appointments will be face to face at the hospital depending on the investigations you may need. Sometimes, you may also have a telephone or video call. The hospital will let you know when communicating with you.
Will I have my appointment before any tests are done?
Yes. Although sometimes the hospital will decide it is faster for you to get a test done before having a consultation with a doctor/nurse (this can be called a 'straight to test' appointment).
What can I do to prepare for this appointment?
The hospital will let you know what you should do to prepare for your appointment. You may wish to consider if you want to bring someone with you and make plans for your travel to and from the hospital on the day.
Is there support to get to the hospital, if it's needed?
Check your appointment letter or the hospitals website for patient transport information and request further guidance from contact details provided.
- https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/hospitals/going-into-hospital/how-to-organise-transport-to-and-from-hospital/
What should I do, if my symptoms get worse, change or if new symptoms develop before my appointment?
Contact your GP surgery as soon as possible and request to be seen urgently by your GP so that you can get further advice. If out of hours you will should contact 111 or seek urgent medical attention.
What can I do if I feel worried after being referred?
It is okay and normal to feel worried after being referred for suspected cancer investigations. It may help if you are concerned and have any questions, to ask for a follow up call with your GP before your cancer referral appointment. There are also a number of support services you may wish to consult if relevant to you.
- https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/get-help/emotional-help/macmillan-support-line
Disclaimer
This checklist as been co-created with residents, patients and carers from the five north central London boroughs of Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Haringey and Islington, as well as healthcare professionals. The checklist gives an overall picture of the main steps in the cancer pathway but recognises there will be variation for many people. The signposted third party resources have been carefully selected and verified. We endeavour to ensure they are current and active but cannot guarantee this.