Follow-up care after treatment

After your main treatment ends, you usually still see your cancer team for regular check-ups. This is called follow-up care. How often you see them depends on different things, including:

• the type and stage of the cancer
• the treatment you have had
• your needs and wishes
• the arrangements at the hospital you go to. 

You may feel worried before an appointment. Going back to hospital can be a difficult reminder of what you have been through. But it can also be a positive reminder that you are getting back to everyday life. People are often reassured after their visit.

The aim of this cancer follow-up appointment is to make sure everything is going well for you. It is also a chance for you to talk about any concerns you may have. The appointment helps your cancer doctor or nurse notice any possible problems early. They may examine you and do some simple tests, such as taking a blood sample. They will usually ask questions about your recovery and any side effects or symptoms you have.

It is very important to go to your appointments. If you cannot go because you are not feeling well, tell the clinic. They can arrange another appointment for you.

Your cancer team can refer you to other services if you need specialist help. For example, they may refer you to a psychologist or counsellor for emotional help, or a physiotherapist for advice about exercising.

• Write down any questions before your appointment. You can also write down the answers to help you remember them.
• Take someone with you. They can support you and can help you remember what was said.
• Always tell your cancer doctor or nurse about any ongoing or new symptoms, or other health worries.
• Tell them how you are coping with your feelings. They can give you advice or direct you to the right place for support.
• Tell them if you are taking any prescribed or non-prescribed medicines. This includes vitamins, minerals, or herbal or complementary medicines. Sometimes these can affect other drugs, including some cancer treatments.
• Be honest with your cancer team. This helps them to give you the best support.

Your GP and practise nurse can offer support during and after treatment. If you have not seen them during treatment, it is a good idea to make an appointment when it finishes. Your cancer team will send them a report (treatment summary) about your treatment. You should always tell your GP about any problems you need help with.

Some GPs may have an agreement with the hospital to share your follow-up care. They may also prescribe some of the drugs you need.

Your GP is responsible for your general health. They can also give you emotional support and advice on:

• recovering
• maintaining a healthy lifestyle
• work
• benefits and financial support.

Your GP practice may also be able to support people close to you.

Remember to keep going to any regular check-ups you have at your GP practice. These may include blood pressure checks or cervical screening. It is important to care for your general health as you begin to recover.

Macmillan is also here to support you. If you would like to talk, you can do the following:

• Call the Macmillan Support Line on 0808 808 00 00.
• Chat to our specialists online.
• Visit our life after cancer forum to talk with people who have been affected by cancer, share your experience, and ask an expert your questions.