Presentation, initial investigations and referrals is the second of seven steps of the cancer continuum as set out in the Optimal Care Pathways.
This step outlines the process, usually commencing in the primary care setting, for initiating the correct investigations and referring the patient to the appropriate specialists, and the timeframes for this. The types of investigations undertaken at this stage will depend on many factors, including access to diagnostic tests, the availability of medical specialists and patient preferences.