Option 1: Straight to tests
You may be referred straight to the hospital for tests to investigate any concerns. Please see the section titled ‘tests/investigations which may take place’ for further information on what these may involve.
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Option 2: Initial telephone triage
Here at Salisbury we are piloting a new service where by your first contact from the hospital, if not sent directly to test, could be a telephone triage assessment carried out by a Colorectal Nurse Specialist.
This is being carried out to help reduce the waiting timeÌýbefore you are seen.
During this telephone call you will be asked questions about your health, your symptoms and your personal circumstances.Ìý The colorectal specialist will then advise what tests you need to have. You will then be contacted via letter or telephone to confirm a date for an appointment for any further tests.Ìý Most tests take place within 2- 6 weeks.Ìý It is helpful if you can tell us of any holidays you may have planned, or dates when you are not able to come to hospital for tests.
In some circumstances after telephone assessment the nurse may feel it is appropriate for you to see a colorectal Consultant in the first instance.