Skip to main content

What is an RDC?

The RDCs in Wales are based on a model developed in Denmark and were piloted between 2017-2019 by a partnership between the Wales Cancer Network, Swansea Bay and Cwm Tâf Morgannwg health boards, which showed that they offer a cost-effective solution to improving outcomes. 

Welsh RDCs provide a timely and holistic route to diagnosis for patients with vague symptoms who do not fit the criteria for a standard suspected cancer referral, because of the absence of clear ‘red flag’ symptoms.

The pilots additionally showed that RDCs are effective at quickly diagnosing a range of other serious health conditions as well as providing prompt reassurance to those with no significant diagnosis. They therefore contribute towards the ambitions of ‘A Healthier Wales’. 

In short, RDCs aim to:

  • Support earlier diagnosis for patients with vague, non-specific symptoms that could be cancer
  • Reduce the number of cancers diagnosed via emergency presentation
  • Improve overall patient health outcomes by detecting cancer earlier
  • Improve patient and GP experience
  • Identify and manage other serious non-malignant disease or those at risk of developing serious illness.