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As part of your cancer care, you have been identified as being suitable for Supported Self-Management (SSM).This page explains how this follow up works and who to contact if you have any concerns.
What is SSM?
Instead of having regular follow-up appointments arranged by your cancer team, this care pathway allows you to arrange appointments when you feel they are needed. There is good evidence to show that having regular follow-up appointments does not prevent cancer returning. There is strong evidence that symptoms and concerns are addressed more quickly if patients report them when they occur rather than waiting for a routine follow-up appointment with the cancer team.
How does SSM work?
If your cancer team feel that SSM will be suitable for you, this will be discussed with you and, if you agree, you will be placed on the SSM pathway. You will no longer receive regular follow-up appointments and will need to contact your cancer team if you feel you need an appointment.
You will only be entered onto the SSM once you have received an end of treatment summary and an appointment with your clinical nurse specialist for a holistic needs assessment. This assessment is about your physical, psychological, spiritual and social needs. The focus is on you as a whole person – not just your cancer.
What are the benefits of SSM?
- A treatment plan tailored to your priorities and requirements.
- You have direct access to a member of the cancer team, enabling you to schedule appointments when you need them.
- You feel empowered, having more understanding of worrisome symptoms whilst being able to contact the cancer team directly.
- You will not have to come to hospital as often. This means less disruption for you, and avoids uncomfortable and unnecessary examinations.
When should I call my cancer team?
If you have symptoms of:
- Vaginal bleeding and/or discharge
- Bleeding after sex
New onset of any of the following symptoms lasting longer than 2 weeks:
- Abdominal/pelvic pain
- Unexplained weight loss/ loss of appetite
- Change in bowel or bladder habit
- New persistent breathlessness
- New unilateral (one-sided) or bilateral (both sides) leg swelling
- Back pain
- If you are generally unwell or excessively tired
- Unexplained lumps in your groin, armpits or neck
These are some of the common symptoms women experience if their cancer has returned. However, remember that these problems can occur for many different reasons, and it does not necessarily mean your cancer has returned. Despite this, if you are experience any of these symptoms it is always sensible to contact the cancer team. Your GP can also use these numbers to contact our team if they feel you need to be seen in our clinic for a face-to-face review.
We also recommend that you call your cancer team if you are experiencing the following:
- On-going problems or side effects after your treatment
- Low mood
- Depression
- Feelings of isolation
- Sexual concerns
- Money worries
How should I contact the cancer team?
If you experience any of these symptoms or have any of the concerns mentioned, please contact the gynae-oncology clinical nurse specialists, via the Macmillan Cancer RMS Support Worker on 03006 130100. There is a voicemail service available. They will always return your call at the next available opportunity.
What will happen when I contact the cancer team?
They will discuss your concerns with you and recommend one of the following:
- An appointment to see a member of the cancer team
- An MRI or CT scan, followed by an appointment to see the team with the results
- Arrange an appointment with your GP
- No action is required, and reassurance will be given
A log of all calls will be made to your patient record.
If you experience any symptoms not listed, please contact your GP.
If your call is urgent, please contact 111 for advice or attend the nearest emergency department if necessary.
Useful Signposting
Macmillan Cancer Support
0808 808 00 00
www.
The Eve Appeal (Women’s Cancer Charity)
020 7605 0100
www.
Cancer Research UK
0808 800 4040
www.
The Fountain Centre
Tel 01483 406618
www.fountaincentre.org
rsc-tr.fountaincentre@nhs.net
Frimley gynaecological cancer support group
enquiries
Macmillan Cancer Navigators
03006133535
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Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Gynaecology service.
About this information
Service:
Gynaecology
Reference:
HH/049
Approval date:
2 July 2024
Review date:
1 June 2026
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.