New service in Bridgwater aims to help detect lung cancer earlier

Patients in Bridgwater are now able to self-refer for a chest x-ray to help detect lung
cancer earlier.

The Somerset Chest X-Ray Service has launched this summer and means patients
aged 40 and over who are experiencing symptoms such as a persistent cough,
breathlessness, or unexplained weight loss, and are registered with a Bridgwater GP
practice, can log onto the Somerset NHS Foundation Trust website and fill out an
online referral form.

The service is already having a significant impact for patients across the town and its
surrounding areas, as by having an earlier investigation without the need to see a
GP first, people have been identified with suspected cancers at an earlier point,
which is in turn improving their likely health outcome.

Clinicians review the self-referral and, depending on the patient’s symptoms, they
may be invited to attend a chest x-ray at Bridgwater Community Hospital – all without
needing a GP appointment.

Dr Martha Manning, Somerset NHS Foundation Trust’s earlier cancer diagnosis lead
GP, said: “This innovative patient self-referral will make a significant positive impact
on diagnosing lung conditions in a timelier way.

“It will lead to better health outcomes in symptom management, emotional wellbeing,
and ultimately, should improve survival rates.

“The service allows patients to proactively manage their lung health concerns,
without the need to see a health professional in general practice to get answers
quickly.”

The new chest x-ray service forms part of a series of developments across
Somerset, moving from analogue to digital, to support early cancer diagnosis, easing
the pressure on GP practices, and reducing health inequalities, by improving access
to vital diagnostic services.

Rosie Edgerley, Somerset NHS Foundation Trust’s cancer programme manager,
added she’s really pleased that the trust is able to bring this service to Bridgwater.
“Many people put off seeing their GP as they think their symptoms are nothing to
worry about,” she says. “Lung conditions can develop quickly though, and this
service offers a fast, local, and hassle-free way to get checked.

“No appointment is needed, and eligible people can simply
complete the online referral form and, if appropriate, attend a chest X-ray at
Bridgwater Community Hospital.”

For full details on eligibility and how to access the service, visit the Somerset NHS
Foundation Trust website: https://www.somersetft.nhs.uk/cancer/somerset-chest-x-ray-service/