Key takeaways
- Your end-of-treatment summary includes key information about your treatment, side-effects and ongoing care
- It tells you when to contact your cancer team about specific symptoms or concerns
- Both you and your GP should have a copy of this summary
- If you notice any changes in your health, don’t hesitate to reach out to the appropriate team member
An end-of-treatment summary is an important document you should receive when your cancer treatment finishes. This summary helps you and your healthcare team understand and agree on the key information about your treatment and what comes next. This article from our cancer nurse specialists explains why this document is important and what to do with it.
What is an end-of-treatment summary?
Your end-of-treatment summary includes details of the treatment you’ve received, any ongoing side-effects and symptoms to monitor, and a plan for follow-up care. It’s shared with your GP, ensuring they are aware of your cancer history and can support your future healthcare needs.
Why it’s important
Your end-of-treatment summary tells you when to contact your cancer team about specific symptoms or concerns. It helps you understand:
- How often you’ll need follow-up appointments and tests.
- What symptoms might indicate a need for immediate attention.
- Who to contact for different types of concerns (e.g., GP for general health, treatment team for cancer-related issues).
What to do with your end-of-treatment summary
Keep a copy of this summary handy, and make sure your GP has one too. If you haven’t received one, ask your cancer team for it. Open communication is key: if you notice any changes in your health, don’t hesitate to reach out to the appropriate team member.
While we have ensured that every article is medically reviewed and approved, information presented here is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any questions or concerns, please talk to one of our healthcare professionals or your primary healthcare team.
References:
‘Follow-up care after cancer treatment,’ macmillan.org.uk, Feb 2024, https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/after-treatment/follow-up-care-after-treatment
‘Finishing cancer treatment,’ macmillan.org.uk, Feb 2024, https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/after-treatment/finishing-treatment