Waiting times
You have the right to be seen within maximum NHS waiting times for many treatments — or to be offered other suitable options if that is not possible.
- Updated August 2026
- Clinical review pending
- 1 source
At a glance
- You have a right to access services within maximum waiting times.
- If that is not possible, you can be offered alternative providers.
On this page (2 sections)
Overview
The NHS Constitution gives you the right to access services within maximum waiting times, or to be offered a range of suitable alternative providers if this is not possible [1].
If you are waiting
If you are waiting for treatment and are worried about how long it is taking, you can speak to your GP or the hospital, who can explain your options [1].
Sources
- Department of Health & Social Care (GOV.UK). The NHS Constitution for England (opens in new tab) Updated 17 August 2023. Accessed 12 August 2026.
About this page
- Written by
- Consumer Health editorial team
- Medical review
- Pending — this page has not yet been reviewed by a named clinician. Read our medical review policy.
- Last updated
- August 2026
- Next review due
- August 2027
Important: This information is for general guidance only and does not replace professional medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose or treat any condition. Always speak to a qualified healthcare professional — such as your GP or pharmacist — for advice about your individual circumstances, and do not start, stop or change any prescribed treatment based only on this page. If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 999. Consumer Health is an independent health-information resource and is not the NHS or a government body.
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