Outpatients
Frequently asked questions
If you are waiting for an appointment or for an operation you may have a lot of questions. Here are some answers to the frequently asked questions.
How long will I have to wait?
How are patients prioritisted on the waiting lists?
Doctors look at who has the greatest clinical need and who has waited the longest. They prioritise people against these two key criteria. We want to ensure that this is done as fairly as possible to ensure that people are not disadvantaged.
I have not received a hospital appointment and my condition has worsened, who do I contact?
If you have not heard from the hospital and your condition is getting worse, you need to contact your GP. You shouldn't put off getting any help you need.
I have new symptoms and I am concerned that they may not relate to my original condition, who do I contact?
You should contact your GP who can then assess, advise and help you manage your new condition.
Can my GP help me to be seen quicker?
No, your GP won't be able to help you get seen any quicker as your GP does not have access to the hospital appointment or waiting list system.
My GP referred me to the hospital a while ago but I've heard nothing. Who can I contact to find out what is happening?
The hospital Patient Support and Complaints Team offers confidential advice, support and information. They provide a point of contact for patients, their families and their carers.
I'm on a waiting list but I don't think I need the treatment any more.
It is also important that you contact your hospital if you think that you would like to be removed from the waiting list.
What if I am unable to get to the hospital for my appointment or operation?
We ask patients to make their own travel arrangements to and from the hospital, but in special circumstances the Non Emergency Patient Transport Service provides ambulance transport for patients who require it due to medical need.