ABSTRACT
The published NHS Cancer Plan sets very high standards for cancer services throughout England. This is to be applauded, and for those an interest in primary care oncology it is encouraging that the central role of primary care is being re-emphasised. Increasingly, general practitioner (GPs) and other primary healthcare professionals are becoming involved in cancer treatment. Cancer therapy has traditionally been the province of site-specific specialists or oncologists. Delayed cancer diagnosis can have adverse effects on patient survival. It may also increase patient distress and disability, as later-stage cancers often require more extensive and aggressive treatment. GPs who need to make onward referrals for definitive diagnosis and treatment are often placed in the unenviable position of balancing the conflicting demands and expectations of patients, primary care trusts. GPs can also provide specialists with invaluable information to assist them in planning a patient's care, such as background information on the patient's social circumstances, and their psychological state, as well as comorbidities.
