Pushing for faster cancer treatment times in West Berkshire

Early cancer diagnosis and treatment are vital for patients. But across the country, hospitals are failing to treat patients quickly enough.

In 2023, the government reinforced its commitment to ensuring that 85% of cancer patients begin treatment within 62 days of referral. This target has not been met since 2015.

In fact, recent analysis shows that only three out of 121 NHS trusts are consistently meeting the target. Unfortunately, this does not include the Royal Berkshire Hospital, where only 74.2% of patients are starting treatment within two months of receiving their diagnosis. 

The earlier cancer is treated, the more likely it is that treatment will be successful. Therefore, delays in accessing treatment can have devastating effects for patients and their families.

In light of these shocking statistics, I recently asked the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care what steps he is taking to ensure targets are met for cancer patients in West Berkshire.

More needs to be done to ensure that cancer patients in West Berkshire receive timely care. That’s why I will continue to call for the necessary investment to improve facilities at the RBH and reduce waiting times.