If you have waited longer than 18 weeks

For many consultant-led referrals in England, the NHS Constitution standard is to start treatment within 18 weeks unless an exception applies. This does not apply in every situation.

Steps to consider

1. Ask your GP or hospital to confirm your referral status.
2. Check whether your wait is measured from the correct referral date.
3. Ask whether any clinically suitable alternatives exist.
4. Contact the provider’s PALS team if you need help with communication.
5. If you make a formal complaint and it is not resolved, ask about the correct escalation route.