Effective communication is essential at every step of the care pathway. Effective communication with the woman and her carer is particularly important given the prevalence of low health literacy in Australia (estimated at 60 per cent of Australian adults) (ACSQHC 2013).

The general or primary medical practitioner who made the referral is responsible for the woman until care is passed to another practitioner.

The general or primary medical practitioner may play a number of roles in all stages of the cancer pathway including diagnosis, referral, treatment, coordination and continuity of care as well as providing information and support to the woman and her family.

The general or primary practitioner should:

• provide the woman with information that clearly describes who they are being referred to, the reason for referral and the expected timeframe for appointments
• support the woman while waiting for the specialist appointment.

Cancer Council nurses are available to act as a point of information and reassurance during the anxiety-provoking period of awaiting further diagnostic information. Contact 13 11 20 nationally to speak to a cancer nurse. Health professionals can also access this service.