Patients with breast cancer symptoms can self-refer to specialist services 24/7 through NHS 111 Online and the NHS App.

Over 2,000 patients have used the service, bypassing the need for a GP referral. Around 60% met the eligibility criteria and were offered a clinic appointment. The cancer detection rate is 6% compared with around 4% for GP referrals.

GP referrals have fallen by up to 28%, freeing over 1,000 appointments for patients with greater clinical need, while overall referral volumes have stayed within expected levels.

The new approach uses NHS Pathways, the national clinical triage platform, to safely assess eligibility and prioritise those at highest clinical risk. It’s rolling out to other NHS trusts and use with other cancer types is now on the cards.

Winner of the digital innovation at the NHS Excellence Awards 2026.