2WW Suspected Cancer referrals

The Trust continues to provide services for suspected cancer and you should continue to refer as normal using the 2WW system for any suspected cancer. However, as a system we have agreed a system of handling referrals, so that maximum resources are focussed on those most likely to benefit.

Referrals

Hospital consultants continue to risk-stratify patients referred on the 2ww pathway. To support effective risk-stratification it is extremely important that as much clinical information is given as possible and the referral form filled in completely.

• All relevant pre-referral investigations should be done, in particular essential blood tests are critical to allow appropriate triage and if necessary straight to test.
• The WHO performance status is essential and if appropriate a frailty score to inform assessment; to include co-morbidities.
• Ensure your patient is willing to attend hospital for investigation.
• If your patient is in one of the at-risk categories for covid19 or self-isolating this information should be included in the referral.

Hospital process

The risk stratification of 2ww referrals is being undertaken on the basis of the patient’s clinical need, the level of risk to the patient from coronavirus and the impact of the outbreak upon the clinical service. As a result some patients will have their pathway deferred.

During the deferral period the patient remains under the care of the hospital and there are safety-netting processes in place. The pathway will continue later when the balance of risk and circumstances change.

Detailed processes and guidance can be found in the below document – note that these are subject to change as the situation evolves. Changes will be communicated to practices.