28 days turnaround to be told

Hi all

I think I am correct when I say there should be a 28 day turnaround to be told if you have cancer or not on a fast track referral.

Well my fast track had to be delayed by 5 weeks while I came off some medication that could effect the test results, which I fully understand.

So after waiting 40 days to come off my medication,  my fast track official started it's now 30 days since I was was tracked.

I was supposed to have my fast track biopsy on the 10th Sept but as I was walking into the hospital to get it done, it was cancelled! Why? because the wrong type of biopsy was booked for me.

Now my next appointment for my biopsy is not until the 18th Sept and time I get the results it's going to be around 45 days for my fast track. That's 75 days in total  with the 1st delay I have not slept and have been worrying.

I have also been suffering because the medication I had to stop for my other illness due to the fast track , I really need, as not having it make me worse.

Is there anything I can do?

Thank you for reading this.

Dave

  • Hi there and thank you for posting

    I am sorry to hear you are currently undergoing some tests and the delays you have experienced so far. This is understandably a very worrying and frustrating time for you.

    Whilst there are recommendations for patients to be seen and have any necessary tests as quickly as possible the waiting times are only guidelines. Unfortunately due to NHS backlogs and lack of resources many patients are waiting much longer to get answers which is unsettling.

    There isn't much you can do I'm afraid apart from raising a complaint with the hospitals PALS department if you choose to. Although if you are struggling with symptoms due to the medication you have stopped speak with your doctor about this, in case they can recommend anything else to try.

    I hope you know more soon and that everything will be okay for you.

    Please 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.

    Naomi