What we do
Our Rapid Diagnostic Centre was set up for people with vague but potentially serious symptoms that need investigating quickly as they could potentially be a sign of cancer (for example weight loss, a change in bowel habits, shortness of breath etc.)
Patients are referred by their GP and will have access to number of rapid diagnostic tests so we aim to make a diagnosis quickly or rule our cancer.
Some forms of cancer show very specific symptoms and it is clear when to refer to specific teams such as the head and neck team or breast cancer team. However, sometime things like weight loss or fatigue and vomiting cannot always be explained, especially if they are lasting for a few months. Our aim is to rule out that your symptoms are not a sign of an early cancer.
We are aware that waiting for tests and results can be a very worrying time so we will frequently track your investigations and update you with any results as quickly as possible. We also aim to support your emotional well-being during your time with our service.
Our team
Our team is made up of:
- Consultants
- GP’s
- Radiologists
- Endoscopists
- Specialist Nurses
- Care Navigators
What to expect?
We will ask your GP to do a number of tests before your telephone appointment with the team, so please don’t worry if you are asked to attend for scans or bloods before you are contacted by the hospital.
You will be contacted by a clinic nurse specialist within the next 14 days who will carry out a telephone assessment and, in conjunction with a consultant, decide on the appropriate diagnostic investigations to best manage your care. This could be a CT scan, gastroscopy or a colonoscopy.
Following all your diagnostic tests if cancer is diagnosed you will be referred straight away to the specialist team.
In some cases, there is no explanation for your symptoms and if cancer is ruled out we will discharge you back to your GP. If no cancer is identified but you require further care or treatment, we will refer you to the appropriate specialist team.
Throughout your journey with us you will be allocated a care navigator who is your point of contact for any concerns or questions you may have.
In order to improve the service we provide our patients, the team may contact you for feedback.