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I have only admiration for the speed of this service

Posted By rcdsal45

"I have only admiration for the speed of this service"

About: Fife Community Services / Rapid Cancer Diagnostic Service (RCDS)

(as a staff member posting for a patient/service user),

My rapid weight loss ( 6 stone over a year) was extremely worrying so I made an appointment to see my GP to get this investigated. Initially my GP took some blood samples and decided that as the weight loss was so severe I should be referred to the hospital for further tests.

I was then contacted by a member of the Rapid Cancer Diagnostic Service team. I must admit I had not heard of this service and of course the word cancer can be worrying.

Georgia from the RCDS team took time to explain everything in detail and that took away some of my anxiety.  My hospital appointments were quickly made and I was soon given more blood tests followed by a CT scan and X-ray. 

A couple of days later I was telephoned by Georgia and given the all clear for cancer.  However the blood tests did reveal that I had Coeliac Disease which means that I must now watch my diet and be careful with what I eat.  I have also be given advice on this by dieticians. 

The care and attention I received from all the staff during this process was brilliant.  I have only admiration for the speed of this service.  It all happened so quickly and with care and attention I can only be impressed.  On other occasions when I have had hospital procedures I have been chasing the results, but not with the RCDS.  Thanks to everyone involved with this process.   

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Responses

Response from Murdina MacDonald, Lead Cancer Nurse, Cancer Services, NHS Fife last month
Murdina MacDonald
Lead Cancer Nurse, Cancer Services,
NHS Fife

Submitted on 15/03/2024 at 16:31
Published on Care Opinion at 16:31

Dear rcdsal45

Thank you for taking the time to share your experience of care on care opinion. I am the Professional Lead for our RCDS nursing team. It must have been very concerning to experience such a significant weight loss over the course of a year. Your GP’s decision to refer you to the hospital for further tests demonstrates a commitment to your health and well-being.
We understand that the word “cancer” can evoke anxiety, and we appreciate your candidness about your initial concerns. We are pleased to hear that Georgia from our RCDS team took the time to explain the process in detail and alleviate some of your worries. Effective communication and support are essential components of the care we strive to provide.
We are glad to hear that your hospital appointments were promptly arranged, and that you underwent necessary tests. While it must have been a relief to receive the all-clear for cancer, we understand that the diagnosis of Coeliac Disease brings its own set of challenges. We commend the healthcare team for promptly identifying and providing guidance on managing this condition, including dietary recommendations and support from dieticians.
We are grateful for your kind words regarding the care and attention you received from our staff throughout the process. Providing compassionate and efficient care is at the core of our service and we are pleased that our efforts made a positive impact on your experience. Thank you for acknowledging the dedication of our team, and we wish you continued health and well-being.

Warm Regards

Murdina

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