Calls are mounting for Andy Burnham to introduce a formal waiting‑time target for people referred for memory and cognitive assessments. Advocates and experts want a measurable standard for dementia pathways, arguing that a referral‑to‑treatment target would create clearer expectations for patients and services. An 18‑week referral‑to‑treatment threshold has been publicly supported by England’s former national cancer director, who has pointed to the precedent of similar standards in other areas of care.
The 18‑week referral‑to‑treatment (RTT) approach sets a maximum interval from a clinical referral to the start of planned treatment or care. It has been applied across a range of specialties within the English health system to provide targets that commissioners and providers can plan around. Backers of a dementia RTT say such a standard could bring greater transparency to assessment and diagnostic services, and help track performance over time.
Setting a target would have practical implications for local health structures and service delivery. Memory clinics, diagnostic services and community teams would need capacity planning that aligns with any new standard, and coordination with commissioning bodies and hospital trusts would be required. The proposal has been framed as a tool to reduce unpredictable waits and to make service shortfalls visible to policymakers and the public.
Proponents also note that any move to adopt an RTT target for dementia would need clear definitions of what counts as a referral and what constitutes the start of treatment or support, given the variety of pathways people follow after a suspected diagnosis. Implementation would likely involve data collection and regular reporting so that progress against the target could be monitored; national and local agencies would play roles in setting reporting frameworks and oversight.
Those urging action say the next steps should include discussion between the mayoral office, health commissioners and local providers to assess feasibility and resource implications. Observers say a defined waiting‑time goal could concentrate attention on capacity gaps and reinforce accountability for delivering timely assessments and follow‑up care. For information on dementia policy and services see dementia and official NHS guidance at NHS.
