A CANCER hub which aims to reduce stress in people with a suspected diagnosis has been launched in the Borders.

The facility was set up by the region’s health board last month for those referred to Borders General Hospital.

The ‘single point of contact’ hub provides information about what to expect and how to access available services.

Lynda Taylor, Macmillan nurse consultant and lead clinician in cancer, said: “Being referred to hospital with suspected cancer can be an upsetting and worrying time for patients and their families. During this time, a number of visits to different hospital departments may be needed to obtain an accurate diagnosis and agree the safest, most appropriate treatment plan.”

She added: “Introducing a single point of contact will go some way to make this path feel clearer and help people who may be feeling uncertain or anxious.”

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The aim of the cancer hub is to reduce stress by improving communication and access to support services.

The new service will be implemented through a phased approach, with everyone having access to it by spring 2023.

An NHS Borders spokesperson said: “The cancer hub will send out an information leaflet to people with a suspicion of cancer, detailing how to get in touch. You can access the cancer hub by calling 01896 826811 or emailing BOR.CancerCareCoordinators@borders.scot.nhs.uk.

“The service will operate Monday to Friday, 9am–4.30pm. If you call out-with these hours, please leave a voicemail and someone will get back to you.

“People who have an existing cancer diagnosis can continue to contact their specific cancer professional team as they do now.”