Abstract. Background: In England, ‘fast-track’ (also known as ‘two-week wait’) general practitioner referrals for suspected cancer in symptomatic patients are used to shorten diagnostic intervals and are supported by clinical guidelines.
Why have I been given a fast track referral?
A fast track referral happens when a GP has concerns that a patient’s symptoms might suggest cancer. They make a referral to the hospital and an appointment to see a specialist is arranged within two weeks. The hospital contacts the patient by telephone to schedule the appointment or any tests that need to be done.
Does an urgent referral mean I have cancer?
Does this mean I have cancer? It is normal to worry when you are urgently referred to see a specialist by your GP, nurse or dentist. However, more than 9 out of every 10 people (more than 90%) referred this way will not be diagnosed with cancer.
Does a 2 week referral mean I have cancer?
What is a ‘Two Week Wait’ referral? A ‘Two Week Wait’ referral is a request from your General Practitioner (GP) to ask the hospital for an urgent appointment for you, because you have symptoms that might indicate that you have cancer.
How long is an urgent referral NHS?
within 2 weeks
What does it mean to be urgently referred? An urgent two-week referral means that you will be offered an appointment with a hospital specialist within 2 weeks of your General Practitioner (GP) making the referral.
What does NHS fast track mean?
Fast Track refers to the need for care to be available quickly, with recognition. that there may not be sufficient time to complete a Full NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC) assessment . The Fast Track process is set out in the National Framework for NHS Continuing Healthcare.
What is Fast Track referral in NHS?
A fast track referral happens when a GP has concerns that a patient’s symptoms might suggest cancer. They make a referral to the hospital and an appointment to see a specialist is arranged within two weeks. The hospital contacts the patient by telephone to schedule the appointment or any tests that need to be done.
Will a doctor tell you if they suspect cancer?
Doctors need the information about grade and stage to plan your treatment. It may take a few days before your doctor has the results of all the tests. They will then be able to tell you whether you have cancer, and talk with you about your treatment options.
Does a referral to an oncologist mean you have cancer?
No, seeing an oncologist doesn’t mean you have cancer. You’re seeing an oncologist because you have symptoms that might be cancer. Your visit to an oncologist is an opportunity for you to talk to a specialist about your symptoms. Your oncologist might order tests to learn more about your symptoms.
How long does a cancer referral take?
no more than 2 months (62 days) wait between the date the hospital receives an urgent referral for suspected cancer and the start of treatment. no more than 31 days wait between the meeting at which you and your doctor agree the treatment plan and the start of treatment.
What are the red flags for cancer?
Data on the presence of red flag symptoms of cancer (persistent cough, persistent change in bowel/bladder habits, nonhealing ulcer, persistent difficulty in swallowing, unexplained weight loss, unexplained lump, persistent unexplained pain, unexplained bleeding, and change in the appearance of mole) and presence of
How do doctors tell you if you have cancer?
In most cases, doctors need to do a biopsy to diagnose cancer. A biopsy is a procedure in which the doctor removes a sample of tissue. A pathologist looks at the tissue under a microscope and runs other tests to see if the tissue is cancer.
What is a red flag referral?
You’ve been referred as a red flag because your GP or dentist feels your symptoms need further investigation as soon as possible and has referred you to a specialist. There are many common conditions that these symptoms could be linked to, including the possibility of cancer.
Why is my referral being reviewed?
Why have I been referred? Your GP will discuss with you and, if appropriate, your carer, about why a referral is being recommended for you. It is usually because your GP wants a specialist’s help in deciding on the best way to treat your condition.
How long is urgent referral?
within two weeks
The referral is considered urgent because the specialist needs to arrange investigations quickly to try to establish what is wrong. An urgent referral means that the patient will be offered an appointment at a hospital within two weeks.
What is 2WW pathway?
Introduction Two-Week Wait (2WW) referral pathways including referral to treatment targets in NHS were introduced to shorten delays in the diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC), and to improve overall survivals.
Who is eligible for fast track?
The only requirement for eligibility for fast-track funding is; That the individual has a rapidly deteriorating condition that. May be entering a terminal phase.
How long does fast track care take?
Once approved, a care package should be in place within 28 days. People with a package of care funded by CHC are re- assessed after three months and then annually to review whether or not they still require support.
What is Fast Track continuing care assessment for?
If an individual’s condition is deteriorating rapidly, they may be approaching the end of their life, and a “fast track” continuing care assessment may be applicable to allow an appropriate care and support package to be put in place as soon as possible.
Why am I being referred to an oncologist?
You will likely be referred to an oncologist if your doctor suspects that you have the disease. Your primary care physician may carry out tests to determine if you might have cancer. If there are any signs of cancer, your doctor may recommend visiting an oncologist as soon as possible.
What happens at an urgent breast referral?
They will ask about your symptoms, examine you and arrange some tests. The breast team will aim to undertake all tests on the same day as the appointment and therefore you need to allow three hours for the appointment. women over 40 years old this is usually done with a mammogram (an x-ray of the breast).
