White, Caroline ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6162-4499, Robinson, Spencer ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0002-9370-7138, Macleod, Una ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6108-3637 and Kelly, Charlotte ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1302-6181 (2025) GP referral to rapid diagnostic centres for non-specific cancer symptoms: a qualitative study. BJGP Open. BJGPO.2024.0179.

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Abstract

Background

Diagnosing cancer can be challenging, especially when patients present to GPs with serious, but non-specific symptoms. Rapid diagnostic centres (RDCs) have been introduced in England as diagnostic pathways for patients with non-specific symptoms where cancer is suspected, but they do not meet existing cancer pathway criteria.

Aim

To investigate GP perspectives on referral to an RDC pathway for patients with non-specific symptoms and suspected cancer.

Design & setting

A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with GPs, within the catchment area of an acute NHS trust in the UK.
Method

GP interviews focusing on experiences of using the RDC pathway. A thematic analysis was conducted on interview transcripts.
Results

GPs reported the RDC pathway as a game changer. It offered faster referral, reduced anxiety for GPs and patients, and reduced the need for GPs to ‘ game the system ’ when patients do not meet criteria for cancer-specific pathways. The narrative required on referral appeared to legitimise GP gut feelings and expertise. RDC results (if not cancer) gave GPs space to treat patients without concern of a missed cancer, while ensuring onward referral for those with cancer or other serious conditions. Some access barriers, especially related to travel and time, were identified especially for patients in rural areas.

Conclusion

This cancer pathway fills a referral gap for GPs and patients with non-specific potential cancer symptoms. It has an important signposting function, helping identify patients requiring treatment for cancer or other serious conditions, and others whose symptoms can be treated safely within primary care.

Item Type:	Article
Status:	Published
DOI:	10.3399/BJGPO.2024.0179
School/Department:	School of Science, Technology and Health
Institutes:	Institute for Health and Care Improvement
URI:	https://ray.yorksj.ac.uk/id/eprint/13074

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