We want to ensure that the reductions in inpatient and outpatient waiting times seen over the past few years in London are maintained. We challenge and support PCT Clusters and Trusts to improve their processes and streamline patient pathways to improve access and reduce waiting times for treatment.

One of the most challenging access targets in the history of the NHS was achieving the national 18 weeks target in December 2008. This meant that 90% of inpatients and 95% of outpatients were being treated within 18 weeks of being referred to hospital by their GP.

Unlike previous waiting time targets, the 18 weeks target addressed the whole patient pathway, rather than individual stages of treatment such as outpatient or inpatient care.

Since December 2008 patients have benefitted from faster access to treatment and care and in turn earlier relief from pain and discomfort. Improved processes and systems in hospital trusts have put staff in a better position to plan and manage their workload and to make the best use of their specialist skills.

Our role

The 18 weeks standard is now enshrined in the NHS Constitution. The average waits and those waits where patients are waiting the longest are also monitored so that NHS London can work with PCT Clusters and Trusts to ensure that patients receive timely and clinically appropriate care in line with national requirements and that any problems with delivering these standards are addressed swiftly.

This involves regular communication with PCT Clusters to monitor performance and offer support and guidance, and running events for NHS staff to learn more about the Referral to Treatment Standards and what they need to do to ensure improved access to treatment and care for their patients.