Evaluation and impact of promotion of a cancer helpline to cancer patients through their specialists.

Four hundred and sixty four cancer patients attending their first outpatient consultation (96% of those eligible) were given a pamphlet promoting a cancer helpline by their participating specialist. Calls to the helpline during and six weeks following the study period were made relating to 4% (95% CI: 2.1%-5.6%) of patients or family members receiving the pamphlet. Whilst this response is small, the willingness of cancer specialists to distribute the pamphlet identifies them as a valuable channel for linking patients with complementary services.