What are my rights regarding NHS service waiting times?
South Asian Health — NHS Navigation — Your Rights5 July 2026
Under NHS guidelines, you have the right to be seen within a specific time frame depending on the type of service you need. For example, if you are referred for a specialist appointment, you should be seen within 18 weeks. If your condition is urgent, you may be prioritized for faster treatment. If you feel you are waiting too long, you can speak to your GP or the NHS service provider to discuss your concerns. It's important to know that you can also ask for your waiting time details at any point.