Introduce maximum waiting times for urgent NHS treatment

Background

Require NHS England to introduce legally enforceable maximum waiting time standards for patients referred urgently for diagnostic investigations and specialist treatment where delays may impact patient safety.

Additional details

Many patients across the UK, including those with urgent referrals, face long waits for diagnostic tests and specialist treatment despite serious symptoms. Delays can worsen health conditions, increase anxiety and risk preventable harm. National waiting time protections would help ensure timely and safe access to care.