Patients will typically follow a pathway similar to that outlined below but care will be personalised for you and decisions will be made in conjunction with your cancer care team.
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Referral
You may attend your GP if you have concerning symptoms. Your GP will then refer you to a specialist consultant for investigation, sometimes called a ‘Red Flag’ referral. Alternatively, you may be referred for further investigations following a screening programme. Waiting time information can be found here.
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Investigations
There are a number of investigations that may be undertaken based on symptoms you present with and the type of cancer you may have. Examples of this would be a physical examination at an appointment, scans such as X-rays, MRIs or CTs and tests such as biopsies and blood tests.
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Multi-disciplinary team meeting (MDM)
If you are suspected of having a cancer you will be are discussed by a multi-disciplinary team, specialising in treating cancer. Your referral will be discussed along with your medical history, results from the investigations you have undertaken and what further tests or treatments are the most suitable to offer you.
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Diagnosis
You will usually have a results appointment with your doctor who will explain your diagnosis and what treatments may be available to you. A Clinical Nurse Specialist may also be present at this appointment or details on how to contact them will be provided.
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Treatment
There are a wide range of ongoing supports you can avail of during you cancer journey. The Macmillan Information and Support service, based in both Craigavon Area Hospital and Daisy hill have trained and dedicated staff and volunteers who will listen to your worries and concerns and offer free confidential support and advice. Find out more about MISS here.
You may be assigned a Clinical Specialist Nurse who you will be able to contact for any clinical concerns. They are an expert in your type of cancer and can provide specialist advice throughout your journey. You may be offered a Holistic Needs Assessment with one of our specialist support workers or your Clinical Nurse Specialist. This appointment will be an opportunity to discuss any concerns you have and receive individual advice to best support you.
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Follow-up / review appointments
Follow-up / review appointments are for you to discuss your health and wellbeing following treatment with your doctor or Clinical Specialist Nurse. You may be offered to take part in a patient initiated follow up (PIFU) as a way for you to be able to quickly contact the team with any concerns in the future.