What is a two-week wait referral?
A two-week wait (2WW) referral — also called an urgent suspected cancer referral — means your GP has identified symptoms that meet NHS England's criteria for urgent specialist assessment. Under the NHS Constitution, you should be seen by a specialist within two weeks of your GP making the referral.
Receiving this letter does not mean your GP thinks you have cancer. It means they want to rule it out quickly. The majority of patients on a 2WW pathway are found not to have cancer.
What to expect
- An appointment with a specialist, usually within two weeks
- Possible tests or investigations at the appointment — scans, biopsies, blood tests
- A follow-up appointment to discuss results, usually within a few weeks
If your appointment is delayed
You have the right to be seen within two weeks. If you have not received an appointment within a few days of your GP making the referral, contact your GP surgery. If the delay continues, contact PALS at the relevant hospital Trust. This is an urgent pathway and delays should be escalated immediately.
Do not wait silently. Read our guide on how to chase your referral for exactly what to say and who to contact.
Managing the wait
Waiting for a cancer assessment is extremely stressful. Macmillan Cancer Support provides a free helpline (0808 808 00 00) for anyone worried about cancer, regardless of diagnosis. You do not need a confirmed diagnosis to call.