Key takeaways
- Moving to follow-up care can be challenging and confusing
- While you might no longer be in close contact with your treatment team, other professionals might also have a role in your care
- A key worker or cancer nurse specialist will likely be your point of contact, while your GP can also be involved in your follow-up care
- You may work with other specialists, including dietitians, physiotherapists, occupational therapists and psychologists
While moving from active treatment to follow-up is a positive thing, the change
can be challenging. Many people in this situation report feeling that the regular contact they had with their treatment team has fallen away, and it’s common to feel confused about who to contact, and when. Understanding who to contact, when to reach out, and what to discuss with your healthcare team will empower you to take an active role in your post-treatment care. This article aims to introduce you to the key people involved in your follow-up care, including their roles.
Your key worker or cancer nurse specialist
Your treatment team will tell you who to contact after treatment ends. This person might be called a ‘key worker’, often this is a clinical nurse specialist (CNS) who can offer emotional support, practical advice, and a link between you and your team and other health professionals and specialists. They’ll help you manage any ongoing symptoms, understand your follow-up care, and can refer you to other services when needed.
General Practitioner (GP)
Your cancer team will send your GP a ‘treatment summary’ when your treatment ends. Your GP is responsible for your general health and will have access to all your treatment summaries.. They can help manage your follow-up care and provide emotional support, medication prescriptions, and routine health checks.
Other healthcare professionals
Depending on your situation, you may also work with other specialists such as:
- Dietitians to guide your nutrition and overall health
- Physiotherapists to help with physical recovery
- Occupational therapists to help you with everyday tasks and support you to get back to the activities that matter to you
- Psychologists or counsellors for emotional support and coping strategies
Each of these professionals contributes to your long-term health management by addressing specific aspects of your recovery and wellbeing.
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.