Hi
i went to the GP last week with one lump and now have a few - obviously referred red flag for assessment but when I contacted the booking team today I’ve been told there’s at least a 6 week waiting list - is there a way around this? Apart from private? If I turn up to A&E would that get me seen any faster. Otherwise does anyone know of costs etc to get a private diagnosis and who to go to. I’m in Northern Ireland if that helps x
Hi Paula773,
Thank you for getting in touch with us and welcome to our online community. My name is Adrienne and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists at Macmillan. I see that you’ve joined out breast cancer forum. I hope you find it helpful and supportive.
It’s understandable that you would want to be seen as quickly as possible and red flag referrals for suspected cancer are given the highest priority. When you are referred to a specialist, you should not have to wait more than 31 days from the date the referral is received to finding out whether or not you have cancer. If you are diagnosed, you should not have to wait longer than 62 days from the date the referral is received before starting treatment. However, we know that some hospitals are receiving a lot of referrals, leading to longer waiting times.
It may be worth asking your GP to refer you to a different hospital if possible, if you are willing/able to travel. They may have a shorter waiting list and you could be seen sooner. Or you could contact the booking team again and say you would accept any last-minute appointments due to cancellations, if this is possible for you to do.
Unfortunately, turning up at A&E would not be helpful. They are likely to tell you to wait for your appointment, rather than do an ultrasound scan and biopsy in the department. They may also not have access to a mammogram machine, which is usually the first scan you would have at your breast appointment.
I completely understand how hard the waiting can be. Many people feel anxious while they are waiting. You may feel like you have no control over what is going to happen to you. The waiting period might feel very long, and the future may feel uncertain. There is no right or wrong way to deal with these feelings. It may help to give us a call on the support line. It can help to talk things through and gives you the opportunity to ask any questions that may arise.
Take care and best wishes,
Adrienne
Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.
Ref: AMc/JH
