The general practitioner is responsible for:

• providing patients with information that clearly describes to whom they are being referred, the reason for referral and the expected timeframes for appointments
• outlining their potential role and that of the primary care team throughout treatment and follow-up care (Cancer Australia 2020d)
• considering referral to a breast care nurse such as a McGrath breast care nurse or a nurse in a local breast cancer centre
• considering referral to Breast Cancer Network Australia’s ‘My Journey online tool’ and local community-based support such as peer support
• requesting that patients notify them if the specialist has not been in contact within the expected timeframe
• considering referral options for patients living rurally or remotely

supporting the patient while waiting for the specialist appointment (Cancer Council nurses are available to act as a point of information and reassurance during the anxious period of awaiting further diagnostic information; patients can contact 13 11 20 nationally to speak to a cancer nurse).

Refer to Principle 6 ‘Communication’ for communication skills training programs and resources.