I'm not sure but I had some rectal bleeding (my iron was low normal) and was told that  from referral for a camera /colonoscopy the target  waiting time was 2 weeks - I was referred on 27/12 and have just got my letter for pre assessment 7/1 so seem to be holding to that - they will give me the date  for the colonoscopy on that day I'm told - hope you're hubby hears something soon 

Eating cooked liver is a very quick way to get iron in your blood. It's quicker than iron pills. I had very low iron and after eating liver for a couple of weks my iron levels went up to normal. I'm still eating it once or twice a week to keep level up.

You do not need to eat a lot, just 100 grams or so a day will provide enough iron,but if you like it you can eat more. It's just food after all. Just remember to have some fresh fruit or salad at same meal as the vitamin C in fresh produce helps the body absorb the iron from the liver.

If you don't like cooked liver, you could try liver paté sold in most supermarkets, but paté doesn't have a lot of iron, most of it is fat actually so not so healthy. I prefer pork liver or chicken liver, cooked gently in a frying pan with a bit of oil, salt, onion and garlic.

Alternatively (or additionally) you could ask at any chemist for a type of drink given to people with iron deficiency and other mineral deficiencies. It's like a milk shake and comes in small cartons. It's a bit pricey at around 5 pounds per drink but it's very good for building up the body quickly. The one I was given before my op was IMPACT from Nestlé. I don't think you need a prescription for it. It feels you up a lot, so better to drink it after meals or between meals. You can have 3 a day but ask chemist.

Iron tablets do not work so quickly and can cause constipation in some people. Tea and coffee can make it difficult for the body to absorb iron, so best avoided during deficiency.

Hope this is of help. Wish you and hubby all the best results.