Hello everyone - husband has suspected cancer and been fast tracked to see a consultant haematologist. Can someone explain this process to me please?

Hello, I have just joined this group after discovering earlier this week that my husband has suspected cancer.  His doctor called him in following blood tests and has fast tracked him to see a consultant haematologist, (apparently within 2 weeks) would someone be able to explain the process to me please.

He's confused because the NHS app referral initially said 'suspected cancer - specialist appointment to be confirmed'.  Two hours later is changed to 'investigating course of action'.  He hasn't been given a clear idea of what the suspected cancer is either, it's all terribly vague.

Is this how it normally goes do you know?  I think I'm going to have to ring the doctor tomorrow to get some clarification because I'm conscious that time is of the essence.

Thank you in advance for sharing your experiences.

  • In summary:

    GP refers patient to hospital for initial tests or scans

    Results come back and are reviewed by an MDT (multi-disciplinary team) 

    The MDT agrees which doctor or surgeon should lead

    The lead clinician meets the patient to agree the next steps (e.g. more tests or scans or straight into treatment)

    When the results and scans are complete, care plans are discussed with the patient

    Treatment begins (assuming that’s what the patient chooses).

    I hope this helps.

    Best wishes
    Dave

  • Thank you very much Dave, very helpful. All the best, Norma