Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I get to my appointments?

• Information for Edinburgh Cancer Centre WGH
• Information for Other Sites (The Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, St John’s Hospital, Lauriston Building)

Is patient transport available?

Having a hospital or clinic appointment does not mean that you automatically qualify for ambulance transport. To find out if you are eligible, please call 0300 123 1236 for assistance, ideally with 10 days’ notice. Going to Hospital

Where can I park?

The main car park is near the outpatient entrance, with disabled spaces available. Parking can be busy; allow extra time and consider public transport where possible. Finding Us

How do I find directions to departments?

Download the relevant site map.

• Western General Hospital Map
• St John’s Hospital Map
• The Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh Map

Can I claim travel expenses?

Having a hospital or clinic appointment does not mean that you automatically qualify for travel expenses.  Support may be available if you are in receipt of certain government benefits. Contact your local Macmillan ICJ Team at 0131 537 1500 or visit Lothian Improving the Cancer Journey.

• Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service at the Western General Hospital, Edinburgh – Cancer Care Map
• Health and well-being services
• Macmillan guide on eligibility and claiming expenses

Where can I stay if I’m coming from out of area and feel unwell or cannot travel daily?

Your clinical team will advise if you are eligible for funded accommodation close to your treatment centre. Accommodation options can be found near the hospital. Speak with the Cancer Navigation Team for guidance. If using web-based search engines see post codes below-

• Western General Hospital EH4 2XU
• St John’s Hospital EH54 6PP
• Edinburgh Royal Infirmary EH16 4SA

Please note, if you are travelling out of area, you may be advised to remain in hospital longer, than if you live local to the treating hospital.

Is there a coffee shop or somewhere to eat?

Yes, refreshments are available. Facilities and Your Visit

Where can I get benefits advice or financial help?

• Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service: 0131 537 3907 Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service at the Western General Hospital, Edinburgh – Cancer Care Map
• Eligibility criteria apply. Contact the Macmillan ICJ Team on 0131 537 1500 Lothian Improving the Cancer Journey – Health and Well-being
• Benefits and Cancer
• Additional resources: Cancer Support

How long do I have to wait for an appointment?

• Waiting times vary; your clinical team will inform you when dates are confirmed.

What investigations do I need?

• Your clinical team will explain the investigations, tests and procedures you require, during your consultation.

Are there any risks with investigations?

• Most tests are low-risk; your clinician will discuss any specific concerns.
• Waiting times for Treatment- Times will vary; your team will keep you updated.
• Radiotherapy timetables and CT planning dates – Schedules are provided after planning scans

Please note, appointments may not always run to time.

For further information please visit   What to bring – Edinburgh Cancer Centre.

Clinical teams will keep you informed at each stage of the process ensuring you feel supported and updated throughout.

Before your appointment it may be helpful to review the following useful questions to ask – It’s Ok to Ask

Cancer treatment can typically involve surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, but there are other treatments such as targeted therapy, immunotherapy and hormonal therapy.

Your specific treatment plan depends on the type and stage of cancer, and often combines several approaches. This will be discussed in detail by your clinical team.

Treatment timing and schedules are difficult to change, as these plans are carefully designed to maximise effectiveness and minimise risks.

For a general overview, please click here.

What are the side effects of my treatment?

• Side effects vary. Refer to the information provided by your clinical team.

Do I have to take time off work?

Many patients continue working during treatment. It depends on your treatment type, side effects, and job demands. Discuss with your clinical team and employer to plan adjustments.

Can I drink alcohol?

Alcohol may interact with certain treatments or affect outcomes and recovery. Always check with your clinical team for personalised advice. For general guidance Alcohol – NHS Inform

Can I still smoke / vape?

Smoking or vaping can impact treatment outcomes and healing. Speak to your clinical team about nicotine use and options for replacement therapy.

All NHS sites are Smoke Free spaces, which means you are unable to smoke on any NHS grounds, help and support is available from Quit Your Way

Do I still get my COVID and flu vaccinations?

Yes, these vaccinations are recommended for most patients. Timing may need adjustment based on your treatment schedule—confirm with your clinical team.

Do I need to see my Dental team prior to treatments?

Yes, a dental check-up before treatment is strongly advised to prevent complications. If you’re not registered with a dentist, you can find one here.

Can I still go on holiday?

Check with your clinical team before booking travel.

Can I get Travel Insurance?

Yes, travel insurance is available for patients with cancer. Check if you remain eligible with your current insurer. Further advice is available via these links –

• Cancer and buying travel insurance
• Travel and Cancer

Can I have contact with grandchildren and pets?

Yes, normal contact is safe unless advised otherwise by your clinical team.

Can I continue to take part in physical activity/ sports?

Yes, unless you have been advised against it by your clinical team.

Physical activity and cancer

Are there certain foods I should be eating or avoiding?

It is important to maintain a healthy balanced diet, unless you have been given advice from your clinical team.

Eating well and keeping active during treatment

How do I get receive my results from investigations?

• Results are usually given at your next clinic appointment. Non-clinical navigation staff are not authorised to give results over the phone.

What happens after treatment is completed?

• You will have scheduled follow-up appointments and ongoing support from your clinical treatment.  You will be provided with specific information on schedules and intervals for investigations.

If you have concerns between appointments, contact your Clinical Nurse Specialist directly or via the Cancer Navigation Hub on  0300 123 1600.

Support can also be accessed from Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service at the Western General Hospital, Edinburgh – Cancer Care Map

Unwell during and after treatment up to 6 weeks post-treatment:

Call the Cancer Treatment Helpline on 0800 917 7711. If outside Scotland, go to your nearest A&E.

Unwell after 6 weeks post-treatment:

If related to your cancer or treatment, call the Cancer Navigation Hub on 0300 123 1600.

Unwell but unrelated to cancer:

Contact your GP or NHS 24.

Additional support before or after clinic appointments:

Ask for patient information leaflets or speak to support staff.

Additional clinical information before or after hospital appointments:

Contact your Clinical Nurse Specialist directly or via the Cancer Navigation Hub – Telephone 0300 123 1600.

What can I do to to help myself after the treatment is complete?

Recovering after cancer treatment is a gradual process that involves caring for both your physical health and emotional wellbeing.

Here are some links to areas of support and information;

• Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service at the Western General Hospital, Edinburgh – Cancer Care Map
• Recovering after cancer treatment
• After treatment
• Maggie’s | Everyone’s Home of Cancer Care
  • Life after cancer
  • After the treatment – then what?
  • Cancer Card
  • Look Good Feel Better – A leading cancer support charity

Contact your Clinical Nurse Specialist directly or via the Cancer Navigation Hub 0300 123 1600.