Hospital praised for breast cancer surgery wait time

The report said 99% of patients with suspected cancer were either diagnosed or had cancer ruled out within 28 days of a GP referral

A hospital has been praised for its breast cancer waiting times.

In a report from the NHS England Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) initiative, the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King's Lynn, Norfolk, was reported to have on average a six-day wait for breast cancer surgery.

Key priorities of the NHS long-term plan include early diagnosis to improve outcomes and reducing treatment wait times.

Simon Illingworth, chief operating officer, said: "This is fantastic news and means that our patients, whether suspected of cancer or diagnosed with it, receive the most appropriate care as soon as possible.

The GIRFT initiative is designed to improve treatment and care of patients by reviewing health services in England.

Within the report, it said 99% of patients with suspected cancer were either diagnosed or had cancer ruled out within 28 days of a GP referral.

It said 100% of patients began treatment within 62 days of referral for suspected cancer.

The figures were reported between January and March and recognise the hospital as being the "top performer" nationally.

The Queen Elizabeth Hospital NHS Foundation Trust said reducing breast cancer wait times "reaffirms" its commitment to provide high-quality and timely care.