Overview
Mid and South Essex Foundation Trust are looking to employ a band 7 Clinical Nurse Specialist to support the management of the Faster diagnostic standard across all three sites of the MSEFT Rapid Diagnostic Centre service virtually and from the Basildon site physically. This CNS role is pivotal to the implementation of the rapid diagnostic pathway for patients with suspected Upper GI cancer, supporting the strategic development of the Rapid Diagnostic Centre service in collaboration with other Health Care Professionals, service users and other agencies.
Aiming to achieve early identification and timely diagnosis by creating an integrated pathway for Upper GI, Lower GI and non-specific symptoms. This role is a new nurse-led initiative and training and support will be given to develop CNS-led clinics and discharge. The main focus for the position will be Upper GI cancer. The CNS for RDS role is an exciting opportunity to be a vital member of a new team pivotal to the implementation of the Rapid Diagnostic Service (RDS) pathway for patients with suspected cancer, supporting the transition to meet the faster diagnostic target of 28 days. The post holder will be involved in the management and development of junior staff.
PLEASE NOTE THIS POST WILL BE MANAGED MAINLY FROM THE BASILDON HUB CNS OFFICE
Responsibilities
* Provide a streamlined and efficient Rapid Diagnostic Service to improve patient wait times from referral to diagnosis for suspected cancer patients.
* Ensure a timely onward referral to other site-specific teams if required.
* Work closely with the CNS (diagnosed cancers) to ensure smooth and timely handover of patients with a cancer diagnosis.
* Work with GP representatives, with support from the senior RDS CNS team, to improve referrals for continued support and ensure pathway resilience from primary care.
* Competently assess and triage initial referrals, ensuring diagnostic tests are requested using knowledge and training, and are undertaken in a timely manner against national standards for cancer diagnosis.
* Work with wider teams across tumour site pathways and RDS Navigators to input, record and provide analysis of relevant service data.
* Deliver a patient-centred, clinically effective, proactive and dynamic service from the patient’s referral to discharge.
* Collaborate with the Senior management team to promote interagency multidisciplinary working by developing MSE-wide protocols and pathways to ensure continuous quality improvement of the Straight to Test (STT) service delivery model.
* Support junior staff to reach their potential through continuous professional and personal development, and manage appraisals, sickness and performance improvement.
About the Trust and Working Environment
Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust is one of the largest in the country, with a workforce of approximately 15,000 who serve a population of 1.2 million people. We work with MSE Health and Care Partnership to deliver excellent local and specialist services, to improve health and wellbeing with a compassionate approach, and provide a respectful and vibrant place for staff to develop, innovate and build careers.
From facilities through to consultant specialists, we aim to be the best. We offer a good working environment with flexible working opportunities, and opportunities to develop your career with access to appropriate training and support to succeed and progress. We welcome applicants who are dynamic, forward-thinking and enthusiastic.
Application and Closing
This advert closes on Friday 13 Mar 2026. Please refer to the attached Job Description for the full list of responsibilities.
#J-18808-Ljbffr