This 'straight to test' pilot study suggests a potential strategy for reducing the time to diagnosis and therefore first treatment of those identified with CRC, and offers a methodology for individual hospitals to assess their suitability to employ such a strategy.

This article briefly discusses the current colorectal cancer initiatives which are necessitating service redesign to ensure waiting time targets are met. The role of the clinical nurse specialist (CNS) in facilitating timely service delivery is addressed. ′Paper clinics′ are described and their role in supporting colorectal clinics are identified.