When you arrive
Your appointment letter should tell you where to go, but if you are unsure ask at the main reception desk.
At the clinic
When you arrive in the Outpatients department you will be required to check in with either with the receptionist or clinic nurse. You will be asked to confirm your contact details, NHS number and GP details.
This information is kept in the hospital administration system and will help us to prepare your confidential medical records accurately. Your hospital and your NHS number are unique to you and will help us to locate your medical records and record your treatment. Please keep a note of it for future appointments or enquires.
Some appointments will require you to see a nurse to measure your height, weight, have urine analysis and some testing. You should be advised in your appointment letter should you be required to bring any specimens with you.
This information is kept in the hospital administration system and will help us to prepare your confidential medical records accurately. Your hospital and your NHS number are unique to you and will help us to locate your medical records and record your treatment. Please keep a note of it for future appointments or enquires.
Some appointments will require you to see a nurse to measure your height, weight, have urine analysis and some testing. You should be advised in your appointment letter should you be required to bring any specimens with you.
Family and Friends
You will also be asked to complete a questionnaire called Family and Friends. This is a national survey where patients rate our services. We encourage you to complete this.
Waiting in clinic
Seating space in our clinics is often limited so if you need to have someone to accompany you please try to limit it to just one relative or friend. Delays can occur but our staff should always tell you the reason. There are approximate waiting lists displayed in each area. If you have a special reason why waiting is difficult, please let us know. If you feel concerned about your waiting time, speak to the clinic nurse or receptionist.
In some outpatient areas, multiple specialty clinics run alongside each other and it may appear that some patients may be seen more quickly than you.
Please be reassured that this would be due to the timings of other clinics within the area but everyone is seen in order of their appointment time, not in order of their arrival.
In some outpatient areas, multiple specialty clinics run alongside each other and it may appear that some patients may be seen more quickly than you.
Please be reassured that this would be due to the timings of other clinics within the area but everyone is seen in order of their appointment time, not in order of their arrival.
How the clinics work
Each clinic has its own routine and a team of medical, nursing, therapy and clerical staff. If you have any queries or need advice regarding your treatment, the clinical staff, including specially trained nurses, will be happy to advise you.
To help you identify staff, ID badges are worn giving each individuals' name and occupation along with their photograph.
Every patient is under the care of a consultant but you may be seen by another doctor in the team, who will discuss your medical condition and treatment with you.