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Macmillan and Cancerbackup merged in 2008. Together we provide free, high quality information for people affected by cancer through our publications, website and phone service. Find out more|.
Find out how we produce our information|
You may have seen a surgeon at your local hospital to diagnose your cancer – a breast surgeon for suspected breast cancer|, for example, or a gastrointestinal surgeon for suspected colon cancer|.
Rarer cancers require more specialised surgeons who are skilled at particular surgical techniques. This may mean that you have to be referred to a specialist cancer hospital, possibly some distance from where you live.
If you want to know about the referral process planned for you, you can talk to your GP. They can explain the procedure and, if necessary, refer you for another surgical opinion. If you feel comfortable doing so, you can also ask your surgeon if they specialise in surgery for your particular type of cancer and what experience they have.
For answers, support or just a chat, call the Macmillan Support Line free (Monday to Friday, 9am-8pm)
If you have any questions about cancer, need support or just want someone to talk to, ask Macmillan.