Faster diagnostic framework (including non-specific symptoms)

The Faster Diagnosis Framework (FDF), introduced by NHS England and NHS Improvement, sets out the national approach to faster diagnosis of cancer.

It brings together the separate objectives to establish Rapid Diagnostic Centres (RDCs) and the Faster Diagnosis Standard Best Practice Timed Pathways (BPTPs).

The Faster Diagnostic Framework will now be the overall term used to describe:

• The development of non-specific symptom pathways (NSS)
• Improvements to existing pathways in line with the faster diagnostic principles and best practice pathways.

The Faster Diagnostic Framework is intended to support the patients experience by accelerating the diagnostic process even if they do not have a cancer in the end by:

• Providing an earlier and faster diagnosis
• Improving patient experience by ensuring a smooth supported diagnostic process that begins in the community and ends with a clear outcome.
• Aligning with Community Diagnostic Centre’s (CDC) and other investments to gain efficient and effective diagnostic pathways.

Non–Specific Symptom Pathways

All NHS Foundation Trusts across the region support Non–Specific Symptom Pathways. See the urgent suspected cancer referral section of the website for referral forms 👉 here.

Hear one gentleman’s experience of a non-specific pathway referral by watching the film below.