We are pleased to inform you that a new multidisciplinary diagnostic clinic (MDC) is launching at Barking, Having and Redbridge Hospitals NHS Trust (BHRUT) for patients where there is a strong suspicion of a cancer diagnosis.
Cancer patients presenting with vague symptoms are often diagnosed late leading to poor outcomes. BHRUT as part of the national Accelerate, Coordinate, Evaluate (ACE) programme is introducing a new pathway for such patients who either:
The service is being launched in a phased manner. As part of this phased roll out, GP practices using EMIS system will be able to refer initially following shortly by Vision and Systm One practices.
Referrals to the MDC can be sent to bhr-tr.crooffice@nhs.net (using the EMIS template attached initially).
MDC referrals will be triaged and the patient will usually be offered an appointment in 1-3 working days at Queen’s Hospital. Those not suitable for the MDC will be forwarded to an alternative pathway or managed according to the Trust Access Policy.
To help us speed up the process, please check patient has had the following blood test within last three months:
If required, please provide patient with a blood form for sample(s) taken on the day of referral.
Specific criteria for referral are:
Between three weeks and six months, unless very serious or urgent New persistent symptom OR significant abdominal pain presenting at least twice in the previous month
Acute surgical patients should refer directly to surgical on-call: Ext 6366 (Queen’s); Bleep 8566 (KGH)
Unexpected and unexplained weight loss causing serious concern (e.g. where test have been done to exclude conditions such as hyperthyroidism, psychosocial problems etc.)
Bilirubin > 50 mmol/l, no likely benign cause
Will need a clear reason for suspicion of cancer
Will need a clear reason for suspicion of cancer
Clinical Pathway
Clinical decisions are made by CNS/Consultant supported by information provided by the electronic GP referral. The MDC aims to establish a diagnosis within 28 working days of the referral. Patients without a cancer diagnosis will be given a clear management plan for the referring GP prior to discharge.
Contact Information
Alison Wade, Upper GI & MDC CNS, BHRUT. Tel: 01708 435 410 or 01708 435 000, Ext 6649
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