RCN response to ‘Building Britain’s Future’

Published: 29 June 2009

Responding to today's (29 June) publication of Building Britain's Future, Tom Sandford, Director RCN England, said:

On the two week target to see a cancer specialist:

"Two weeks can seem like an eternity when waiting for a diagnosis, and cancer patients will be reassured that they should be seen in this short time. However, with the overwhelming majority of patients already seen within two weeks it would be better value for money to support the NHS to see additional patients rather than turn to the private sector.

"Whether it's called a standard, target, objective or entitlement, what matters is that clinical decisions drive patient care." 

Ends

Notes for Editors

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Royal College of Nursing (RCN) is the voice of nursing across the UK and is the largest professional union of nursing staff in the world. The RCN promotes the interest of nurses and patients on a wide range of issues and helps shape healthcare policy by working closely with the UK Government and other national and international institutions, trade unions, professional bodies and voluntary organisations.