Head and Neck Cancer Diagnostic Pathway

NHS Scotland Head and Neck Cancer Optimal Diagnostic Pathway

The NHS Scotland Optimal Head and Neck Cancer Diagnostic Pathway is designed to find cancer faster, through an efficient process where the patient is supported from the point of referral.

It encapsulates a speedy initial assessment, timely diagnostic testing (including endoscopy, imaging, and biopsies), and multidisciplinary team involvement to determine the best treatment plan. The clinically agreed national pathway sets out clear timeframes to achieve a diagnosis by day 30 and commencement of treatment by day 62.

A detailed description of the optimal diagnostic pathway, best practice examples and further resources can be found on the Right Decision Service.