Rapid Cancer Diagnostic Service

The Rapid Cancer Diagnostic Service (RCDS) is a new pathway to investigate patients with vague symptoms which could be cancer. This new service aims to provide equity of access for all patients with symptoms suspicious of cancer, shorten the diagnostic pathway and support earlier detection. Most of the patients referred to the RCDS will not have cancer, and the aim is to rule this out quickly. 
 
Early cancer diagnosis is a key priority being taken forward across the Country.  Developing systems which expedite cancer diagnoses and treatment will provide the foundation for strategies aimed at improve cancer outcomes.   
 
The Rapid Diagnostic Clinic/Centre Model is built on robust collaboration between primary and secondary care. Key principles include: Early Identification, Timely Referral, Broad Assessment, Coordinated Testing, Timely diagnosis and appropriate onward referrals.