The Nova Scotia Cancer Care Program has implemented a unified referral system to simplify and expedite the process for patients needing hematology, medical oncology, and radiation oncology services. This streamlined approach utilizes a single referral form and procedure across the province, ensuring efficient access to cancer care. Please note that gynecology oncology referrals follow a separate process, detailed below.
To facilitate the efficient processing, triage, and scheduling of new patients, it is crucial that all referrals for medical oncology, radiation oncology, and hematology (both benign and malignant conditions) include the following essential components:
- Cancer Care Program Referral Form: This standardized form is mandatory for all referrals. Please ensure you download and complete the most current version of the form to avoid processing delays.
- Comprehensive Referral Letter: A detailed referral letter is required, outlining the reason for referral, a thorough history of the patient’s present illness, and relevant past medical history. This information is vital for specialist assessment.
- Completion of Disease Site-Specific Investigations: Referrals must be accompanied by the results of relevant disease site-specific investigations. These investigations are crucial for informed decision-making by cancer specialists.
- Ensure that all investigation reports and results are readily accessible within electronic systems or are submitted directly with the referral.
- In situations where a required investigation or information is unavailable due to patient limitations, contraindications, or excessive wait times, a clear explanation must be included in the referral letter. This proactive communication helps prevent the referral from being returned.
Important Considerations for Referral Submissions:
- Incomplete referrals will not be processed. Referrals that lack any of the aforementioned required components will be returned to the referring provider without being processed. It is the responsibility of the referring provider to ensure all necessary documentation is complete and to resubmit the referral.
- Patient Communication is Key: Prior to referral, it is imperative that patients are informed about their cancer (or potential cancer) diagnosis. They must also be informed that a referral to a cancer specialist has been made on their behalf. Transparent communication is crucial for patient trust and preparedness.
- Cancer Patient Navigators for Out-of-Zone Patients: Providers referring patients who reside outside of the Central Zone should connect their patients with a Cancer Patient Navigator. These navigators offer invaluable resources and support, including assistance with travel arrangements and logistical challenges, ensuring equitable access to care regardless of location.
This province-wide referral process is designed to optimize patient care by ensuring appropriate triage and facilitating timely appointments. By providing cancer specialists with easy access to necessary test results and investigations prior to the initial consultation, this system promotes efficient and effective care pathways.
Through this single intake system, patients will be seen by the most suitable specialist at the cancer center closest to their location, whether in Halifax, Sydney, or a community site. It is important to note that patients requiring highly specialized subspecialty treatment may need to be seen in Halifax, irrespective of their place of residence, to ensure they receive the most appropriate level of care.
