Introducing ‘patient led follow-up’
In the past, patients living with breast cancer have been seen at regular intervals by their clinical team for follow-up care. Some patients find these appointments reassuring, however many more find them a source of great anxiety and not particularly helpful, unless they have something specific they wish to discuss.
There is strong evidence that symptoms and concerns are addressed more quickly if patients report them as and when they occur, rather than waiting for a routine appointment. At Blackpool Teaching Hospitals we have changed the way we manage patients and encourage ‘patient led follow-up’ if appropriate.
What is patient led follow-up?
‘Patient led follow-up’ puts you in control of your care and allows you to take an active and leading role in your recovery with help from your breast care team. There are lots of things you can do to look after your own health during and after cancer treatment.
After your treatment, a member of your team will discuss ‘patient led follow-up’ with you. Once you and your doctor have agreed this is the right option for you, you will no longer have routine follow-up appointments at the hospital. Instead you will be able to contact your team at the hospital directly, who will listen and prioritise your concerns and arrange a follow-up appointment if appropriate.
Your mammogram appointments will be arranged here at the Breast Care Centre until you are discharged at year 5.
You will be required to attend an education appointment (see education appointment leaflet) where you will be provided with information on being body and breast aware, including symptoms you should report (without delay) to your Breast Care Nurse. You will also be given information on using the online portal, managing lifestyle changes, and setting your own goals for recovery and moving forward, on completion of your treatment.
In addition to this, you will have a consultation at the end of your treatment where you will be offered an Holistic Needs Assessment (HNA) to identify any concerns you may have.
Yes. You can call the Breast Cancer Aftercare Coordinator or Breast Care Nurses on 01253 952453 or 953493 if you have any queries or problems. The helpline is monitored between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday and you will be called back by a member of staff within 24 hours.
If they feel it is appropriate for you to come back to clinic to be seen you will be offered a clinic appointment or an appropriate diagnostic test within 14 days of your telephone call. The helpline is monitored between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday and you will be called back by a member of staff within 24 hours.
