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Why have I been referred to the cancer investigation clinic?
You may have been referred to the Cancer Investigation service, for a number of reasons;
- You have signs or symptoms that mean you need further tests to rule out cancer
- You have a suspected diagnosis of cancer
- You have been diagnosed with a ‘Cancer of Unknown Primary’ (CUP) where the main site of cancer is unknown
Who runs the cancer investigation service?
The Acute Oncology Team runs the cancer Investigation service.
What is the role of the acute oncology team?
The Acute Oncology team are here to ensure that the necessary tests and investigations are carried out to ensure that you are given results and a treatment plan as soon as possible.
What is the role of the acute oncology nurse specialist?
The Acute Oncology Nurse Specialist (Key worker) is here to offer you and your family support and information, to assist you in coping with your investigations, and to ensure that you have enough information to make informed decisions about future investigations, treatment and care. Your specialist nurse can also help you with social, emotional, physical and financial issues.
Who is my key worker?
Your key worker is the health care professional who, with your agreement, takes a key role in co-ordinating your care and promoting continuity. This will be the acute oncology specialist nurse until a diagnosis is made and you are referred to the appropriate team. Should you have a cancer of unknown primary, (CUP) the acute oncology nurse specialist will continue to be your key worker.
The Acute Oncology Team
- Oncology consultant
- Speciality doctor
- Advanced clinical practitioner
- Macmillan clinical nurse specialist
- Team coordinator / patient support worker
You can contact the team on 01273 696955 Ext. 63802 at RSCH
Available Monday to Friday 8am – 4.00pm
Please note that we are not always available at the end of the phone. You should leave a message and contact telephone number and we will get back to you usually on the same day. Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals provide support and information services including counselling and palliative care.
The Macmillan Horizon Centre will be open for patient use in 2016, please ask your key worker for further details.
There are local and national organisations and centres which offer information, support and supportive therapies which you may find helpful. Some are listed below;
Brighton & Hove Citizens Advice
Macmillan Welfare Benefits Service
01273 223955
Horizon centre
01273 468770
Brighton Buddies: Please ask your nurse for advice
Macmillan Cancer Support
0808 808 00 00
Cancer of Unknown Primary Foundation
0808 800 4040
This information is intended for patients receiving care in Brighton & Hove or Haywards Heath.
The information here is for guidance purposes only and is in no way intended to replace professional clinical advice by a qualified practitioner.