Gynaecological oncology multidisciplinary team (MDT)

Once we have all of your test results, we will talk to you about your treatment options.

It’s important that you fully understand your treatment. Please ask us any questions about your care plan and we will do our best to give you clear answers. We will also give you written information about your diagnosis and treatment. If anything is unclear or you have questions about the written information, please ask us.

We know that coming to the Cancer Centre can be stressful. You may find it helpful to write down any questions you want to ask us before your appointment.

We will do our best to see you close to your appointment time, but sometimes the clinic runs behind schedule. This usually happens because some consultations take longer to meet patients’ needs. If there is a delay, the reception staff will keep you informed. You can also ask them for an update if you are worried.

Macmillan support workers

The support workers assist the CNS team with daily tasks. They are not medically trained, so they cannot give medical advice. But they can communicate with the relevant teams on your behalf and make referrals to other services. These include advice on welfare and benefits or help with wig and scarf tying. 

The support worker for gynaecological oncology will try to meet you on your first visit to UCLH to tell you about the services and support available. 

Consultant radiologists

Consultant radiologists are doctors who specialise in looking at X-rays, CT and MRI scans, bone scans and other imaging tests. They help to confirm what is causing your symptoms.

Consultant histopathologists

Consultant histopathologists are doctors who examine tissue samples. These samples are usually taken during a biopsy or surgery to help to diagnose a condition.

Other members of the MDT

The team also includes other specialists, such as clinical psychologists, physiotherapists, pharmacists, occupational therapists, dietitians, social workers, and the palliative care team. If you need to see one of them, we will arrange it. 

The gynaecological oncology MDT meets every Tuesday afternoon. They review each patient's case to decide on the best treatment plan. This helps to make sure every patient gets high-quality care and the right tests and treatment.

The team’s recommendations for your treatment plan will be recorded in your medical notes. You will likely have an appointment with your consultant or CNS to discuss this. Sometimes, more tests may be needed, or you may need to see a different specialist team. We will let you know if this is the case and make the referral.

If you are a patient at UCLH and have a medical emergency outside of normal hours, go to your local Emergency Department (A&E) or call the emergency number you received from your CNS.

If you are awaiting your first appointment at UCLH, go to your local A&E or call the emergency number given to you by your local team or CNS.

UCLH is a large research centre, running many studies and clinical trials to improve the treatment and outcomes of gynaecological cancers.

• Research studies may involve giving blood or filling in a questionnaire.
• Clinical trials may involve trying a new medication or procedure.

Your doctor will talk to you about any research studies and clinical trials that may be suitable for you. If you choose to join a clinical trial, a research nurse or clinical trials practitioner will be your main contact during that time.

It is entirely up to you whether you wish to get involved. If you decide not to take part, or later want to withdraw, your treatment may change but you will still receive the same high standard of care.

We will keep your GP informed about your diagnosis, treatment and care. You will be copied into these letters as well. 

If there is anything in the letters that you don’t understand, you can talk to your consultant at your next appointment or call your key worker. 

If you prefer not to receive these letters, please let your consultant or CNS know. 

You can also view your letters and appointment details on our patient portal, MyCare UCLH. If you have trouble signing up, your CNS can assist you. 

The Macmillan Support and Information Service is here for anyone affected by cancer or a blood condition, including family, friends and carers. It offers: 

• complementary therapies, such as massage and relaxation 
• diet and nutrition advice  
• emotional support, advice and information 
• psychological care and counselling 
• welfare and benefits advice 
• wig and scarf tying advice 
• a programme of workshops, courses and events. 

If you would like to use any of these services, please talk to your CNS or a Macmillan support worker. You can also drop in to talk to one of the support and information specialists.  

Address:

University College Hospital Macmillan Cancer Centre

Ground Floor, Huntley Street, London WC1E 6AG  

Tel: 020 3447 8663 or 020 3447 3816  

Email: uclh.supportandinformation@nhs.net  

Opening hours: 9am to 4.45pm, Monday to Friday 

PALS is a patient-friendly, easy-to-access service designed to provide a personal contact point to assist patients, relatives and carers. If you have a problem that you have not been able to resolve, PALS can help you.

The University College Hospital PALS office is located on the ground floor of the main hospital building and is open from 9am to 4pm, Monday to Friday.

Telephone: 020 3447 3042

Email: uclh.PALS@nhs.net

If you are unsure why you have been referred to UCLH, please contact your local hospital doctor or GP. They will be able to explain their decision.

If you need to change your appointment, please call 020 3447 8636 as soon as possible.

If you have a query relating to chemotherapy or radiotherapy, please call 020 3447 8025 or 020 3447 8047.