Resources for patients

There is a possibility you may have cancer

Your GP has referred you to the hospital for an urgent appointment. This may be to see a hospital doctor (specialist) or to have a test.

Most people will not have cancer but it is important we act quickly as early diagnosis and treatment improve outcomes.

Please ensure that your practice has your most up to date telephone number, postal address and email address. This will ensure you receive all the appointment information. Speak to the receptionist if you are unsure of the information the practice has for you. Inform them of any holiday dates in the next 2 weeks.

Tell a friend or family member who can support you to attend the appointment and through the process. Show this information to your employer if you are concerned you won’t be able to have time off for your appointment.

What will happen now?

  • Your GP will start to organise your appointment
  • If your appointment can be booked directly your practice will support you to do this or do it on your behalf
  • If booking directly yourself, please try and book the earliest available appointment
  • If the hospital needs to review your referral and book your appointment, ensuring you are directed to the most appropriate clinic, you will be contacted shortly
  • You may be telephoned within the next 2 workings days to arrange an appointment
  • Your first appointment may be a consultation or discussion over the telephone or via a video link
  • You may be asked to attend for a test as a first appointment
  • In some circumstances you may have both an appointment and a test arranged urgently.

If you miss your call or have a problem with the appointment offered you can call the hospital booking team.

If you do not hear from the hospital within 1 week please contact your GP practice secretary.

If you are asked to attend the hospital all staff will wear the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). You will be asked to wear PPE and maintain social distancing during your appointments.

Clinics will take place in COVID safe environments.


Local information

We can offer help and advice around issues such as:

  • signs and symptoms of cancer
  • emotional effects of cancer
  • financial issues
  • talking to children
  • living with and beyond cancer
  • caring for someone affected by cancer
  • support groups

To make an appointment:

Telephone: 01254 732598 

Email: eastlancsmacmillan@elht.nhs.uk

We can offer help and advice around issues such as:

  • signs and symptoms of cancer
  • emotional effects of cancer
  • financial issues
  • talking to children
  • living with and beyond cancer
  • caring for someone affected by cancer
  • support groups

Anyone affected by cancer in North Lancashire or South Cumbria can contact the centre:

Telephone: 01524 519578 or 07972 639424

Email: macmillan.info@mbht.nhs.uk

Monday – Friday, 9am – 4pm (excluding Bank Holidays).

We can offer help and advice around issues such as:

  • signs and symptoms of cancer
  • emotional effects of cancer
  • financial issues
  • talking to children
  • living with and beyond cancer
  • caring for someone affected by cancer
  • support groups

Telephone: 01772 523709

Email: Cancerinfo.Centre@lthtr.nhs.uk

We can offer help and advice around issues such as:

  • signs and symptoms of cancer
  • emotional effects of cancer
  • financial issues
  • talking to children
  • living with and beyond cancer
  • caring for someone affected by cancer
  • support groups

Telephone: 01253 955710

Email: bfwh.macmillan.info@nhs.net

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