Cancer a priority for NHS seeing more urgent referrals than ever

In response to Labour Party findings about the time cancer patients wait for care, Saffron Cordery, deputy chief executive of NHS Providers, said:

“Cancer is a priority for trust leaders who know the risks to patients who have to wait.

"The pandemic left people waiting longer than trusts wanted for diagnosis or to start treatment but now the NHS is seeing more urgent referrals for suspected cancer than ever. And for the first time, the NHS has just met the faster diagnosis standard for suspected cancer, with three in four people referred receiving a definitive diagnosis or all-clear within 28 days.

"Severe workforce shortages and lack of capacity affect cancer services just like the rest of the overstretched NHS. Trusts need more staff and investment to be able to reduce delays and treat patients as quickly as possible.

“Screening, prevention and early intervention are vital too.”