Do you need a referral for autologous stem cell transplant?

Your treating haematologist or oncologist usually makes the referral because the transplant centre needs your diagnosis, previous treatment details, test results, and current health information. Local appointment procedures can differ, so the transplant centre can confirm what documentation it accepts.

A referral starts a specialist assessment; it does not mean that a transplant has already been scheduled. The team considers whether collecting your own stem cells and returning them after intensive treatment fits your condition and treatment plan. It may review organ function, infections, medicines, previous therapy, and the support available during recovery.

The transplant team coordinates stem-cell collection, treatment planning, transfusion support, infection precautions, and follow-up. Your existing cancer team remains involved and shares relevant records.

Contact the clinician managing your blood cancer or other condition and ask whether transplant assessment is appropriate now. Request that the referral include pathology reports, imaging, treatment summaries, recent blood tests, your medicine list, allergies, and major medical conditions. Ask the receiving centre whether it needs original images or laboratory samples.

Before the appointment, write down previous treatment dates, current symptoms, and who could help you during treatment. Do not stop prescribed medicines or delay current therapy while waiting unless your clinical team gives specific instructions.

While awaiting assessment, follow the urgent-contact instructions from your treating team. Seek prompt medical care for fever, shaking chills, new shortness of breath, chest pain, confusion, uncontrolled bleeding, or rapidly worsening weakness. These symptoms need assessment based on their severity and your current treatment, not on the status of the referral.

Ask what the transplant is intended to achieve, which tests are needed before a decision, how stem cells will be collected, and how current treatment should continue. Also clarify expected time in the treatment centre, infection precautions, fertility considerations, caregiver needs, and whom to call after hours.