Delays in cancer treatment in the NHS require systematic attention as they are associated with an increased risk of patient death. The NHS is failing to meet targets of 62 days from an urgent GP referral for treatment and 31 days from a decision to start treatment. One of the main challenges is that current targets cover multiple pathways to treatment, with overall statistics hiding the complexities of individual cases. About 30% of all cancer patients receive a diagnosis through routine referrals for another suspected condition, but the 62-day target includes only those who have been specifically referred for cancer treatment. Staff productivity issues and potential technological solutions such as robotics or artificial intelligence in radiotherapy require a more deliberate and systematic approach. Measures that take into account these complexities and the different paths patients take through the health system are needed to reduce waiting times for treatment.