If you’ve been referred to hospital but don't need to stay overnight, it means you're being treated as an outpatient.
Once your appointment has been made, you’ll receive a letter from us with everything you need to know.
On the day of your appointment, go to the department named on your letter and register with the reception. Try to arrive 10 minutes before your appointment time.
Although you have a designated time for your appointment, you might have to wait. Hospital staff will try to keep you informed about delays.Before your appointment, a nurse may carry out some tests, like measuring your blood pressure.
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your appointment letter
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anything mentioned in the letter e.g. a list of medications you’re taking
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something to make notes with so you can refer to them later
You’ll see either a consultant (a hospital doctor of senior rank in a specific field) or a doctor who works on the consultant’s team.
Medical students or training nurses might be present during your appointment. If you do not want them to be, tell the doctor or nurse in charge.
The consultant or doctor may want to see you again. If they do, you can book another appointment with the receptionist.
If your doctor or nurse gives you a prescription, you might be able to collect it from the hospital pharmacy. You can check if your hospital has a pharmacy here.
You’ll have to pay prescription charges unless you’re exempt. Please bring proof of exemption with you, such as an income support book.
