Maybe NICE guidance would have something about it? 

Hi Leanda,

I'm not a nurse but I know that the NICE guidelines were changed last year & it's now called the Faster Diagnosis Standard. The timeframe for treatment starting is now EITHER within 62 days from the date the hospital received your urgent referral from your GP OR within 31 days of your consultant discussing the treatment plan with you. This link explains it fully Cancer waiting times | Cancer Research UK

Good luck,

Angie (Stage 3 melanoma patient since 2009)

Thank you

Thank you

Unfortunately, the Faster Diagnosis Standard only applies in England

Only for referrals & diagnosis targets. Target for treatment is England, Scotland & Northern Ireland 

'In England, Scotland and Northern Ireland the current targets are:

no more than 2 months (62 days) wait between the date the hospital receives an urgent suspected cancer referral and the start of treatment

no more than 31 days wait between the meeting at which you and your doctor agree the treatment plan and the start of treatment'

Ah ok. I’ll have a wee look. Thank you x

Hi Leanda and thank you for posting,

I was unsure what your exact situation was, what type of cancer you were referring to, and whether you were asking for yourself or on behalf of someone.

There are cancer waiting targets for all types of cancer. It should be no more than 2 months (62 days) between the date the hospital receives the urgent suspected cancer referral and the start of treatment.

However, unfortunately, we are hearing of people who may have to wait longer due to the pressures on the NHS, and this varies across the country.

I hope this helps a little. Please feel free get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

Take care,

Jemma