Prostate cancer patients get their NHS test results online in new scheme

Men with prostate cancer can avoid long waits to see a doctor by getting their test results online – sometimes even on the day their blood was taken.

For three years, the NHS has trialled the scheme with 2,675 patients recruited six weeks to three years after finishing treatment for the disease.

They can bypass up to four follow-up hospital visits a year, only attending if they have high PSA protein levels, which can be a sign of relapse.

So far the system has been available at University Hospital Southampton, Royal United Hospitals Bath, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Dartford and Gravesham and St Helens and Knowsley Teaching Hospitals trust.

The Daily Mail has called for improvements in prostate cancer diagnosis. Now it is hoped the cash and time-saving system will be rolled out more widely.

Prostate Cancer UK tested it with Southampton University. A study funded by the Movember Foundation, published in journal BMC Cancer, found men coped well with abnormal results. They can also opt for a traditional letter sent directly to their home.

Men with prostate cancer can avoid long waits to see a doctor by getting their test results online – sometimes even on the day their blood was taken [File photo]