Get NATIONAL SYMPTOMATIC BREAST CLINIC REFERRAL FORM

People who are having male to female gender reassignment may be screened as a self-referral at the request of a GP. If you have a symptom of breast cancer, you should see a GP in the usual way.

There are between 350,000 and 500,000 referrals to breast clinics a year. Approximately 125,000 GP referrals are marked 'urgent'. At present, GPs see virtually all patients with breast symptoms and usually manage or refer according to local guidelines devised by the breast unit.

You will not be given a diagnosis at your first appointment. You will have a physical examination of both breasts, followed by a mammogram and/or an ultrasound, then possibly a biopsy. There will then be a wait of 1-2 weeks for your results.

If you have been referred from a breast screening clinic, you may not have a breast examination. Having a breast examination, breast imaging (for example, a mammogram or an ultrasound scan) and tissue removal (for example, a core biopsy or FNA) is known as a triple assessment.

Once the referral from your GP is received, we will see you as quickly as possible for assessment (usually within two weeks for urgent referrals).

What is an urgent referral? Your GP has arranged for you to have tests or to see a hospital doctor (specialist) urgently. This is to investigate your symptoms further. You might have some tests to find out what is wrong and whether or not it could be cancer.

There are between 350,000 and 500,000 referrals to breast clinics a year. Approximately 125,000 GP referrals are marked 'urgent'. At present, GPs see virtually all patients with breast symptoms and usually manage or refer according to local guidelines devised by the breast unit.

If you have symptoms and have been referred to a specialist breast unit by a GP, you'll probably be invited to have a mammogram, which is an X-ray of your breasts. You may also need an ultrasound scan. If cancer was detected through the NHS Breast Screening Programme, you may need another mammogram or ultrasound scan.

mammogram. ultrasound scan. core biopsy. fine needle aspiration (FNA)

Once the referral from your GP is received, we will see you as quickly as possible for assessment (usually within two weeks for urgent referrals).

When you arrive at the breast screening unit, the staff will check your details and ask you about any breast problems you have had. You can also ask any questions you may have. You'll need to undress to the waist, so it may be easier to wear a skirt or trousers instead of a dress.

Once the referral from your GP is received, we will see you as quickly as possible for assessment (usually within two weeks for urgent referrals).