What follow-up actions are required if a patient receives an abnormal result from a screening test?

Follow-up actions for abnormal screening test results include:

• Ensure the results are reviewed and acted upon appropriately by the healthcare professional who ordered the test or who explicitly takes responsibility for follow-up [1. 15. 1].
• If the abnormal result suggests a specific cancer (e.g., myeloma, ovarian, lung, endometrial, bladder, melanoma, prostate, colorectal, soft tissue sarcoma), refer the patient urgently using the suspected cancer pathway referral [1. 1. 1, 1. 1. 3, 1. 5. 8, 1. 6. 1, 1. 3. 2, 1. 7. 2, 1. 10. 6, 1. 11].
• Arrange appropriate further investigations as indicated by the abnormal result, such as ultrasound scans for raised CA125 or direct access ultrasound for unexplained vaginal discharge in women over 55 [1. 5. 7, 1. 5. 12].
• Implement safety netting by explaining to the patient which symptoms to watch for and when to return for re-evaluation, possibly providing written information [1. 14. 9].
• Consider planned or patient-initiated review if the patient has symptoms associated with increased cancer risk but does not meet referral criteria, ensuring timely reassessment if symptoms persist, worsen, or new symptoms develop [1. 15. 2].
• Assess and provide continuing support to the patient while waiting for specialist referral, including inviting them to contact healthcare professionals if concerns arise [1. 14. 10].
• Use local referral protocols and ensure referral letters include urgency status and all relevant information [1. 16. 6, 1. 16. 7].
• Ensure local systems are in place to identify and follow up patients who miss appointments [1. 16. 5].