A mechanism is in place at all cancer centres for a triage oncologist to review referrals for urgency and to balance distribution between specialties. The referral clerk can facilitate identification of the appropriate oncologist if discussion with the referring physician is required. If required, multi-disciplinary review will be arranged by the initial oncologist.

In cases where it is unclear or unlikely that the patient will benefit from being seen in consultation, the triage oncologist may choose to contact the referring physician. If the patient is not to be seen, any advice should be documented and copied to the referring and family physicians.