Before You Leave Home
Please read your appointment letter carefully as it gives details of where to report on arrival at the hospital. If you are uncertain about when to come in or where to go, please telephone the contact number on the letter.
We aim to respect your privacy, dignity and religious and cultural beliefs at all times. Please let us know about any requirements you may have, such as washing or praying facilities.
If you cannot attend your appointment let us know immediately by telephoning the number on your appointment letter; or our freephone cancellations number 0800 136 710 Monday to Friday 9am to 4.30pm (an answerphone facility is available). Please remember to tell us if you have hospital transport booked so this can be cancelled at the same time.
We will try to see you at the time given on your appointment letter or card. However, we cannot guarantee how long your appointment will take, so please allow plenty of time.
When you arrive at the hospital
When you arrive at the hospital, please go straight to the clinic where you have the appointment.
If you need help getting to a clinic, our Welcome Service volunteers will assist you. This friendly team works in Outpatient Reception, Accident & Emergency and South Reception, and will direct and/or escort you to the appropriate clinic.
At the clinic, the receptionist will book you in and explain what will happen next. The receptionist will ask you to confirm your details (for example your address including your postcode, your telephone number, or your GP).
Your first visit to any clinic will involve a consultation, examination and any other medical tests that the senior clinician might require. Any agreed treatments will take place at a future visit.
Patients under the age of 16 years must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, who may need to sign a consent form for treatment, after details have been explained by the medical staff.
If you have any questions, ask a member of staff. All staff wear an identification badge which includes their name, job title and a photograph. If this is not prominent ask staff to show you their identification badge.
Attending Outpatients
Detailed information about your treatment will be given to you in the appropriate outpatient clinic.