ThP3.8 - General Practitioner Compliance to Scottish Referral Guidelines for Urgent Suspicion of Oesophago-gastric Cancer

Abstract Aim The referral guidelines in Scotland stipulate that patients with urgent suspicion of cancer (USOC) should commence treatment within 62 days of diagnosis from the date of primary care referral. In this study, we assessed the adherence of general practitioners (GPs) to the Scottish Referral Guidelines for USOC. Methods This was a retrospective cohort study of all consecutive USOC referrals from GP who were given clinic appointment for Upper GI Surgeons in a single centre for suspected oesophago-gastric cancer between April to September 2022. Patient’s electronic case notes were analysed and the referral indication audited against the Scottish referral guidelines. This study was registered with Clinical Quality Project (LanQIP 14746). Results 361 patients were identified, median age was 63 years (IQR 52-72) and 200 (55.4%) were female. Median Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation was 4 (IQR 3-7). 138 (38.3%) were referred for dysphagia. 5 (1.4%) were vetted straight to the test and had endoscopy prior the clinic consultation. 275 (76.2%) of the GP referrals for USOC were compliant with the Scottish referral guidelines. Median time from the referral to the clinic consultation was 44 days (IQR 31-63). 35 (9.7%) of patients did not attend the clinic. Conclusions The criteria outlined in the Scottish referral guidelines for USOC provide clear parameters for clinic referrals. Our findings reveal that the majority of GP referrals align appropriately with the USOC criteria. Increasing education and awareness among GPs can further enhance compliance with these guidelines and reduce pressure on the clinic waiting time.