Quick answers
This page addresses abnormal cancer-related tests or investigations that were not followed up. It is general information only.
Why follow-up matters
Ordering a test is only part of clinical care. Results need to be received, reviewed, communicated and acted on. A missed abnormal result can delay referral, diagnosis, staging or treatment.
Types of results that may matter
Relevant results may include abnormal blood tests, tumour markers, imaging reports, pathology, biopsy results, endoscopy findings, screening results or hospital letters recommending further action.
Communication and systems failures
Some claims are about systems rather than a single clinical decision. Examples include results filed without review, letters not sent, wrong contact details, no recall system, missed appointments not chased, or unclear responsibility between hospital and GP.
Causation
A claim still requires proof that the delay made a material difference. Expert evidence may address what would have happened if the result had been acted on properly and whether earlier treatment would probably have improved outcome.
Evidence needed
Useful evidence includes result reports, request forms, electronic audit trails, GP and hospital notes, letters, text messages, appointment records, screening records and complaints responses.
Sources used
This page is informed by NICE suspected cancer recognition and referral guidance and NHS information about cancer and test results. See NICE: Suspected cancer: recognition and referral and NHS: View your test results.