18 Week Waiting Time - A Query

[mrs_overall]

I was under the impression that from the date of a GP referral there is maximum waiting time of 18 weeks to be seen by a consultant and treatment beginning?
I was referred in February and given an appointment date in April. The hospital then cancelled this and gave me an appointment in May. This too was cancelled and moved to June, and once again this appointment was cancelled and moved to July. I rang the consultants secretary and complained and the June appointment was reinstated.
Talking to a GP friend last night, he says that once the 18 week mark has been and gone, the hospital will incur a financial penalty and then I can be put back down to the bottom of the waiting list again. It is now 18 weeks and one day since referral and if they keep the June appointment it will be 20 weeks from the date of referral.

[Cloverjo]

Phone the secretary again and state all the facts you gave here. Also, mention what your GP friend said. It might just make them think.
This is what I hate about targets. It's not about doing the best they can for each patient; it's about doing the minimum necessary.
My dad had a similar problem. He phoned and emailed until they gave him what he needed.

[mrs_overall]

The current appointment I have is in two weeks time - I am waiting to see if they cancel this one and then I will be taking action

[THECORBYLOON]

The 18-week limit is laid down in regulations and is covered in this bit here, http://www.nhs.uk/choiceintheNHS/Rightsandpledges/Waitingtimes/Pages/Guide%20to%20waiting%20times.aspx

[mrs_overall]

Great link - thanks Corby