2.3 Initial referral

2.3 Initial referral

CAYA with a confirmed or a suspected laboratory diagnosis of acute leukaemia should be referred on the same day to a specialist service and have an urgent assessment within 24 hours, unless advised otherwise by a specialist.

The ideal referral should have the following minimum documentation, but collating this information should never delay the telephone referral:

  • the patient and their family’s demographics including language barriers and need for an interpreter, relevant medical history, medications and allergies
  • results of clinical investigations (including imaging and pathology reports)
  • recognised significant psychosocial issues or other barriers to accessing care
  • a written summary of what the patient, carer and family understand to be the reason for referral to local or more specialised service.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients will need a culturally appropriate referral. To view the optimal care pathway for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and the corresponding quick reference guide, visit the Cancer Australia website. Download the consumer resources – Checking for cancer and Cancer from the Cancer Australia website.