. . . .but shocking figures uncovered by labour yesterday show some patients are suffering agonising waits of as many as 541 days to begin treatment. .�such figures underline how vital it is that the government supports the nhs to improve waiting times this year.� . .chemotherapy involved two hours at the hospital every other week. he'd leave wearing a fanny pack that would continue to deliver treatment for 48 straight hours, one slow drip at a time.