Self Referrals: Testicular Lumps

What is the Testicular Self-Referral Service?

This is a service for patients to self-refer if they are aged 18 to 50 with a painless, testicular lump. This means patients can be seen in hospital without needing an appointment at their GP Practice first.

Who is it for?

• Men aged 18-50…
• Who are registered with a GP surgery in Southampton…
• Who can feel a new painless testicular lump.

How do patients self-refer?

Patients can self-refer by calling the Rapid Investigation Service (RIS) on 0300 123 1385. Phone lines are open Monday to Friday 9am to 4pm but a voicemail service is available outside of these hours. This is currently only a telephone self-referral service and patients must watch this video to complete a self-examination before calling.

What happens following self-referral?

Once patients have performed a self-examination and called the service, the patient is referred by the Rapid Investigation Service (RIS) to Southampton General Hospital as an urgent suspected cancer referral, however most people with a testicular lump will not be diagnosed with cancer. If the patient is not suitable for the service, they will be signposted back to their GP Surgery to book an appointment who will be informed via letter.

When will patients receive an appointment?

Patients should receive an appointment within 2 weeks for an Ultrasound Scan and have an appointment the same day with a specialist. The hospital radiology team will inform the patient of this appointment via text, email, or letter.

Where will the appointment be?

Patients will be seen at Southampton General Hospital.

Why is the Testicular Self-Referral service being piloted?

The service aims to speed up the process for patients accessing urology services to rule out or diagnose testicular cancer faster. The service should also reduce the demand on GP Surgeries as the patient does not need a GP appointment before the referral.