Two week urgent referral

[DashTikTak]

Our DC has been referred on a two week urgent referral to paediatric ophthalmology. We’ve been told her case has been assessed and agreed by the Consultant that it’s urgent, but the first urgent appointment they can offer is not for another 8 weeks.

I absolutely appreciate the pressures on the NHS but I’d also understood that a 2 week urgent referral would mean we would be seen in that two week window.

I’m going crazy with this worry about what might be wrong with her.

I’ve seen reference online to a legal entitlement to be seen within the two weeks. Does anyone know if (a) that is true, and (b) given the pressures on the NHS, there is any way to enforce that or press for the appointment to be brought forward? I don’t want to be difficult but equally my DC is unwell and my main priority is getting her seem and on the mend.

Due to the covid backlog and ongoing staff strikes all hospitals now have longer wait times targets that the national standards. An 8 week wait doesn't sound out of the ordinary. Escalate if she gets worse but with the back log of sick patients the will prioritise accordingly.

Could you try ringing for cancellations?

Just before Christmas I was given a two week urgent referral. The appointment came through for 8 weeks later. I was actually moving house on the day of the appointment so I phoned to ask if anything earlier was available and thank heavens they the receptionist said she'd just had a cancellation for the next day.

I was given the all clear as are I believe 90% plus of those referred on the two week scheme. I hope you don't have to wait very long at all and that your DC is absolutely fine and well.

Defintely phone every day for a cancellation appt.

complain via Pals. That often works. I wouldn't accept such a delay for my child on a cancer pathway.