Inpatients – referrals for palliative care and symptom control
In most cases, your medical or nursing team will make a direct referral to the hospital supportive care team for management of symptoms.
If you haven’t been referred but would like a consultation with the supportive care team, ask your ward nurse or doctor to make a referral.
How quickly will I be seen by the supportive care team?
Our policy is to see patients as quickly as possible after referral to our team – we will try to contact you the same day or the next working day.
Will supportive care affect my other treatments?
No. We work alongside any other treatments you may be having (such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy).
Will I be seen by my oncology or surgical team?
Yes. We work alongside your regular oncology or surgical team who will continue to look after you.
Outpatients – referral to the supportive care clinic
The supportive care team hold daily supportive care clinics for patients with symptoms. The clinic is run by consultants, specialist doctors, clinical nurse specialists, pharmacists and a physiotherapist.
Your medical team or local palliative care services can refer you directly to the supportive care clinic.
How to see a member of the supportive care team during your routine oncology or surgical outpatient clinic
Your clinic doctor or nurse can arrange, with your agreement, for us to see you during one of your visits if you are attending here as an outpatient.