Question 1

What is the Cancer Concern & Rapid Exclusion Clinic?

Accepted Answer

This clinic is designed for people who are worried that a symptom could represent cancer and would like a prompt medical assessment and appropriate investigations if necessary.
The aim is to carefully assess symptoms, identify warning signs, and arrange appropriate tests to exclude serious causes whenever possible.
Many symptoms that cause concern turn out to have benign or treatable explanations, and the consultation helps provide clarity and reassurance.

Question 2

What symptoms should be assessed in this clinic?

Accepted Answer

Common reasons people attend include:
 • Unexplained weight loss
 • Persistent fatigue
 • A new or unusual lump
 • Persistent cough
 • Changes in bowel habits
 • Blood in stool or urine
 • Persistent abdominal symptoms
 • Unexplained pain

Unexplained bleeding
If you are worried about a symptom that has not yet been fully assessed, this clinic can help determine whether further investigation is needed.

Question 3

What happens during the consultation?

Accepted Answer

The consultation usually includes:
1. A detailed discussion of your symptoms and medical history
2. Review of any previous tests or imaging
3. A focused physical examination if appropriate
4. Assessment of whether further investigations are required
The aim is to identify possible warning signs early and guide the most appropriate next steps.

Question 4

What does “rapid exclusion” mean?

Accepted Answer

Rapid exclusion means arranging appropriate investigations quickly when symptoms require further assessment, so that serious conditions can be ruled out as soon as possible.
This may involve targeted blood tests or imaging, depending on the symptoms.
Blood tests can sometimes help detect markers of inflammation, anaemia, organ function, or tumour markers, which may assist the diagnostic process alongside other investigations.

Question 5

Does this clinic diagnose cancer?

Accepted Answer

Most patients seen in this clinic do not have cancer.
The purpose of the clinic is to evaluate symptoms carefully and rule out serious causes whenever possible.
If investigations suggest a possible cancer diagnosis, appropriate referral to specialist cancer services will be arranged.

Question 6

Do I need a referral from my GP?

Accepted Answer

No.
You can book directly without a referral.
However, if you already have previous test results, scans, or referral letters, bringing these to the consultation can be helpful.

Question 7

Can you arrange tests if needed?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
Depending on your symptoms, further investigations may be arranged, such as:
 • Blood tests
 • Imaging scans
 • Referral for specialist tests
The choice of investigation depends on the specific symptoms and clinical assessment.

Question 8

How quickly can tests be arranged?

Accepted Answer

Where appropriate, investigations can usually be arranged promptly through private services, which may allow faster assessment compared with standard pathways.

Question 9

What if the tests are normal but I still have symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Normal results are often reassuring.
If symptoms persist, further assessment or follow-up may be recommended to monitor progress and ensure no important causes are missed.

Question 10

Is this clinic suitable for emergencies?

Accepted Answer

No.
If you experience severe symptoms such as heavy bleeding, collapse, severe pain, or other urgent concerns, you should seek emergency medical care or call 999 immediately.

Cancer Concern & Rapid Exclusion Clinic

What is it?

Who is this clinic for?

This clinic may be right for you if you:

During your appointment, you can expect:

What to expect

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