Specialists

Eastbourne Radiotherapy Treatment Unit

Eastbourne District General Hospital,Kings Drive,Eastbourne, Eastbourne BN21 2UD

Overview

The Eastbourne Radiotherapy Treatment Unit is a specialized cancer treatment facility located within Eastbourne District General Hospital on Kings Drive. This unit provides radiation therapy services to patients across East Sussex and surrounding areas who require treatment for various types of cancer. Radiotherapy, also known as radiation oncology, uses targeted high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors as part of comprehensive cancer care.

The unit is staffed by experienced clinical oncologists, physicists, and radiotherapy technicians who work together to deliver precise treatment plans tailored to individual patients. The facility utilizes modern equipment and imaging technology to ensure accurate targeting of tumors while minimizing exposure to healthy tissue. Patients typically attend the unit multiple times over several weeks for their treatment courses.

As part of the NHS, the radiotherapy service is available to patients referred by their GP or hospital consultant. The unit works closely with the hospital's wider cancer services and multidisciplinary teams to provide integrated cancer care. For patients requiring radiotherapy, their clinical team will discuss treatment options, expected outcomes, and any potential side effects before commencing their personalized treatment plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most specialist consultations at Eastbourne Radiotherapy Treatment Unit in Eastbourne require a referral from your GP or another doctor. Your GP will refer you through the NHS e-Referral Service. For private patients, some specialists accept direct self-referrals — contact 01273 936890 to check. Under the NHS Constitution, you should start consultant-led treatment within 18 weeks of referral for non-urgent conditions.
Eastbourne Radiotherapy Treatment Unit provides specialist medical services which may include cardiology, dermatology, gastroenterology, neurology, orthopaedics, rheumatology, endocrinology, respiratory medicine, urology, ENT, ophthalmology, gynaecology, and other specialties. Contact 01273 936890 for a full list of specialists and services available at this clinic.
Many specialist clinics offer both NHS and private consultations. NHS appointments are free but may have longer waiting times. Private appointments offer faster access, flexible scheduling, and a choice of consultant, but fees apply. Contact 01273 936890 to ask about NHS availability and private consultation fees at Eastbourne Radiotherapy Treatment Unit.
For your first specialist appointment at Eastbourne Radiotherapy Treatment Unit, bring your referral letter, a list of current medications (or bring the medicines with you), any relevant test results, scans, or medical letters, a list of questions you want to ask, your NHS number, and photo ID if attending as a private patient. It helps to write down your symptoms, when they started, and how they affect your daily life.
Yes, you can seek a second opinion at Eastbourne Radiotherapy Treatment Unit. Under the NHS, you have the right to ask your GP for a referral to a different specialist. Privately, you can book directly. A second opinion can confirm a diagnosis, explore alternative treatment options, or provide reassurance. Bring all previous test results and clinic letters to the consultation.
Eastbourne Radiotherapy Treatment Unit may be recognised by major UK health insurance providers. Contact your insurer to confirm coverage at Eastbourne Radiotherapy Treatment Unit, check your policy excess and benefit limits, and obtain a pre-authorisation code before your appointment. Bring your insurance details and authorisation to your first visit.
If a procedure is planned at Eastbourne Radiotherapy Treatment Unit, you will receive preparation instructions beforehand. This may include fasting requirements, medication adjustments, arranging transport home (if sedation is used), wearing comfortable clothing, and bringing a companion. A pre-assessment appointment may be arranged to check your fitness for the procedure. Follow all instructions carefully and contact 01273 936890 if you have questions.
NHS waiting times at Eastbourne Radiotherapy Treatment Unit depend on the specialty and urgency. Two-week wait referrals (suspected cancer) are seen within 14 days. Routine referrals aim to be within 18 weeks. Private appointments can often be arranged within days. Contact 01273 936890 for current waiting times.
Eastbourne Radiotherapy Treatment Unit may offer on-site diagnostics including blood tests, ultrasound, ECG, spirometry, and other specialist tests. Some clinics also provide MRI, CT, and X-ray services. Having diagnostics on-site means faster results and fewer separate appointments. Ask about available diagnostic services when booking.
Many specialists at Eastbourne Radiotherapy Treatment Unit now offer video or telephone consultations for initial assessments, follow-ups, and results discussions. Virtual consultations are convenient and reduce travel time. Not all conditions can be assessed remotely — if a physical examination is needed, you will be asked to attend in person. Ask about remote consultation options when booking.
Yes, under NHS Patient Choice you can choose which consultant to see when your GP refers you. For private patients, you can request a specific specialist. Consultant profiles with qualifications and specialisms are usually available on the clinic website. Your GP can also recommend a suitable specialist for your condition.
After your consultation, the specialist will write to your GP with their findings, diagnosis, and recommended treatment plan. You may be booked for further tests, follow-up appointments, or referred for surgery or other treatment. For NHS patients, a copy of the clinic letter will be sent to you. Ask the specialist when to expect results and next steps before you leave.
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Contact Details
Phone
Address
Eastbourne District General Hospital,Kings Drive,Eastbourne
Eastbourne, South East England
BN21 2UD
Opening Hours
Monday 08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday 08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday 08:00 - 18:00
Thursday 08:00 - 18:00
Friday 08:00 - 18:00
Saturday 09:00 - 17:00
Sunday 09:00 - 17:00