August 23, 2016 2.58 pm This story is over 91 months old

New Lincoln hospital lung cancer service helps slash waiting times for patients

A new service detecting possible lung cancer has reduced waiting times at Lincoln County Hospital by at least one week. United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust has recently launched the one-stop lung CT service which uses X-rays and a computer to create detailed images of internal organs, blood vessels and bones. These images are then used…
Patients are benefitting from a new diagnostic service at Lincoln County Hospital.
Patients are benefitting from a new diagnostic service at Lincoln County Hospital. Picture: United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust

A new service detecting possible lung cancer has reduced waiting times at Lincoln County Hospital by at least one week.

United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust has recently launched the one-stop lung CT service which uses X-rays and a computer to create detailed images of internal organs, blood vessels and bones.

These images are then used to diagnose various conditions.

Patients used to have to visit the hospital, see a consultant, and then have a CT scan requested.

They had to wait for a scan appointment to be sent to them, and then return to hospital another day for the scan.

Lisa Vickers, senior business manager at ULHT, said the service benefits up to seven patients per week and is aimed at patients who have suspected lung cancer.

She said: “These patients should have a CT scan to diagnose the problem within two weeks of being referred by their GP.

“We’ve made this a one-stop service so that patients can see the consultant in a clinic and then go straight down to radiology and have their CT scan done in one appointment before they go home.”