Read your appointment letter and follow any instructions that you have been given in the letter.
Where do I need to go?
Your appointment letter will tell you which department you need to attend. You will also receive a map of the hospital.
How do I arrange an ambulance to take me to my appointment?
If you need an ambulance to bring you to the hospital for the first time, you will need to organise this with your GP. For any further appointments, if less than six months, we can arrange.
Will I get information beforehand about anything I need to bring or do first?
Everything will be listed on your appointment letter.
Do I need to bring any letters or information or medication?
All instructions will be on your appointment letter.
Can someone come in with me for my consultation?
You may take a friend or relative with you into the consultation room.
Can I bring my young children with me?
Children must be supervised in the outpatients areas at all times. There are some play areas for children.
How long will I need to be at the hospital?
This depends; if you are required to have an x-ray or some tests you will be at the hospital longer, but by doing these on the same day it will save you returning to the hospital on a different day.
If you are informed that you need surgery you will need to have a pre-assessment appointment. This could add an additional four hours to your visit.
What if I need to cancel or change my appointment?
You will need to ring the Telephone Access Centre on 01204 390400. The opening hours are Monday - Friday 8am - 7.30pm, Saturday 8.30am - 1pm, or you can email us on TAC@rbh.nhs.uk If you do not attend your agreed appointment, without first letting us know, you are likely to be discharged back to your GP.
Who will I see?
You could see a doctor who is either a consultant, senior house officer or registrar.
What happens afterwards?
This will be discussed with you at your appointment. If you need tests or procedures every effort will be made to try and have these carried out on the same day. If not an appointment will be made for you to return.
What do I do to arrange for an interpreter?
If there is a need for an interpreter, we can arrange this but will we need to know in advance. We will also need to know which language the patient speaks so we can book the interpreter.