Fast-Track Diagnosis Program

The Fast-Track Diagnosis Program provides a coordinated pathway for patients who need evaluation for a suspected cancer. Based on the individual case, the care team helps guide the patient through the appropriate consultations, investigations and diagnostic evaluations.

The focus is on bringing the necessary expertise and diagnostic services together so that patients have a clearer understanding of the next steps in their care.

The diagnostic process can vary depending on the symptoms, medical history and suspected condition. The program may involve:

Specialist Consultation

An appropriate specialist evaluates the patient's symptoms, medical history and existing medical reports to understand what further evaluation may be required.

Imaging

Depending on the clinical situation, imaging investigations such as CT scans, MRI, ultrasound, mammography or other appropriate scans may be advised to evaluate an area of concern.

Pathology

Where required, tissue or cell samples may be examined by pathology specialists. Pathology findings can help confirm or further understand a suspected cancer.

Other Investigations

Additional blood tests, diagnostic procedures or specialised investigations may be recommended depending on the patient's condition and the information needed to reach a diagnosis.

Coordinated Clinical Evaluation

The findings from consultations, imaging, pathology and other investigations are brought together to help doctors understand the patient's condition and determine the appropriate next steps.

The exact pathway is different for every patient. Depending on the clinical situation, the process may include:

• Initial consultation: Your symptoms, medical history and previous reports are reviewed by the appropriate specialist.
• Diagnostic evaluation: The doctor determines which investigations or imaging may be appropriate based on your individual situation.
• Further testing, if required: Additional investigations or a biopsy may be advised to help establish or clarify the diagnosis.
• Review of results: The available clinical findings, imaging and pathology results are assessed together.
• Treatment planning: Once the diagnosis is established, you are guided towards the appropriate specialist and the next steps in your cancer care.

The program may be appropriate for patients who require evaluation of a suspected cancer or an abnormal finding that needs further investigation.

This may include patients with:

• An abnormal finding on an imaging test
• A lump or mass that requires evaluation
• Symptoms that may require investigation for cancer
• A suspected cancer diagnosis requiring further assessment
• A need for additional investigations following an initial medical consultation
• A diagnosis that requires further evaluation before treatment planning

The investigations required will depend on the patient's individual clinical situation.