Our mission: To detect cancer early in order to improve outcomes.
Overview
We are a team of health care workers dedicated to seeing and investigating patients in whom there is suspicion of a possible cancer.
Your GP may have referred you to us if they are concerned that your symptoms or recent test results may be related to an underlying cancer, but they aren't sure what type.
50% of patients with cancer in UK General Practice do not present with clear cut symptoms that warrants referral to a site specific cancer team. As a result, there is a need for Non-Specific Cancer teams to investigate patients with vague and unclear symptoms which raise suspicion.
Our role is to confirm or rule out cancer, ideally within 28 days. The majority of patients referred to our service do not have a cancer. As a result, we may also diagnose non-cancerous conditions and, where appropriate, will provide advice and guidance about these and either refer onto a specialist team or back to your GP for ongoing support.
If we detect or suspect cancer, we will refer you on to a site specific cancer team to continue investigation and treatment. We aim to pick up cancers in a timely fashion, as early diagnosis supports better outcomes for patients.
What to Expect
We are a rapid access pathway, so you would normally be seen by the team or have your initial investigations within 1 to 2 weeks of your referral.
We hold clinics on Monday and Thursday afternoons in the Outpatients Department at Darent Valley Hospital.
At your first appointment, you will usually have a consultation with a member of our clinical team and a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS).
Prior to your appointment, we may ask you to have further blood tests or undergo a scan. This helps us to be more efficient and ensures we have the information we need available when we see you.
If we feel that further tests are required following your appointment, you will be contacted by the relevant department. Most investigations are carried out within two weeks of your appointment.
Useful Links & Information
We will either invite you back to clinic for a second consultation to discuss your outcome or give you a call to let you know.
If you are concerned or worried we are here to support you and are happy to be called with any questions you may have. You will find we are easily available Monday to Friday, from 9-5 p.m. on 01322428295 or E-mail: dgn-tr.nss@nhs.net so please contact us if you need.
