Get Checked Early
If you’re experiencing any persistent symptoms that are unusual for you, such as lumps, blood or unexplained weight loss, your GP practice wants to hear from you. Because the earlier you find cancer, the more treatment options are available, increasing your chances of living well again.
For more information, symptom checker and real stories, see the Get Checked Early website.
Referrals for Suspected Cancer
Patients who are concerned about symptoms which could indicate cancer should initially present to their own GP. A number of investigations can be carried out within Primary/Community Care service. Some patients may need to be referred to hospital for further investigation, and this should be co-ordinated by the GP.
Contacts
Oncology
Forth Valley Royal Hospital Stirling Road
Larbert
FK5 4WR
Phone: 01324 566300
The oncology department are based in the Oncology Unit Forth Valley Royal Hospital in Larbert. The oncology team work closely with hospital consultants, and primary care. The oncology team are available Monday to Friday, 8 – 5pm for all enquires.
Post chemotherapy contact your own GP if you cannot wait until the following day.
Getting Started with Cancer Treatment
Prior to starting chemotherapy, immunotherapy or radiotherapy treatment, you will be asked to attend a ‘Getting Started with Cancer Treatment’ information session held by the cancer support charity Maggie’s to help you prepare for your treatment. Details of the session times and a short video are outlined below.
You are welcome to bring a family member or friend with you and there will also be an opportunity to ask any questions you may have about your treatment.
The sessions are held in person at Maggie’s Forth Valley centre which is located in the grounds of Forth Valley Royal Hospital, near woodland and on the shore of a small lochan.
Maggie’s provides free, expert cancer support for anyone living with cancer, including friends and families. The team includes cancer support specialists, a psychologist and a benefits advisor.
The Maggie’s Forth Valley centre is open Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 5.00pm. You don’t need an appointment or referral – just drop in. You can also call 01324 868069 to speak to a Maggie’s cancer support specialist, or visit their website for more information.
Maggie’s also operates a shuttle car service to transport you from the main entrance of Forth Valley Royal Hospital to the Centre if you require a lift, just ask at hospital reception desk or give Maggie’s a call on 01324 868069.
Session Timetable
- Getting Started with Chemotherapy, Mondays, 10am – 12pm
- Getting Started with Radiotherapy, Mondays 2pm – 3:30pm
- You may also be interested in attending Prehab, a course for people starting treatment and includes advice from an oncology dietitian. This takes place on Thursdays from 9:30am – 11am
Phone: 01324 868069
Email: forthvalley@maggiescentres.org
Website: maggies.org
Useful Links
More information about identifying, treating and managing cancer conditions can be found on NHS Inform.