Referral pathway

For most people presenting in a community pharmacy with possible early symptoms of cancer, referral will be to their general practice. Referral to a dentist may be appropriate for some symptoms suggestive of oral or head and neck cancers, depending on local pathways.  

As mentioned in module one, NHS England is developing a nationwide pilot to allow community pharmacy to refer people with certain red flag symptoms directly for diagnostic scans. In some local areas, there may already be arrangements in place for direct referral from community pharmacy. Contact your local primary care network for more information.

Now go to part three

References

1. Macmillan: signs and symptoms of cancer

2. NICE – Suspected cancer: recognition and referral

3. Clinical pharmacy and pharmacy practice 

4. Consultation skills for pharmacy practice: taking a person-centred approach.