Region Blekinge reduces colorectal cancer waiting times

The surgical clinic in Region Blekinge has significantly reduced waiting times for colorectal cancer patients. Within one year, the proportion of patients receiving treatment within the nationally recommended 46-day window rose from 25 percent in 2025 to 66 percent in the first half of 2026.

To achieve these results, the clinic implemented several structural changes, including making the process from referral to treatment more predictable. Key measures included ensuring sufficient capacity for colonoscopies, utilizing private healthcare providers when internal capacity was reached, and managing cancellations more effectively. Additionally, surgical planners are now informed during the initial patient visit to allow for earlier preliminary booking of operation times.