What to do if you have a telephone consultation

Many of our patients now have the option of holding their out-patient clinic appointment by telephone.

Who can use the service?

If your appointment can be held by telephone, a member of the hospital team will have discussed this with you or you will have been sent a letter. This is generally the case where:

• a physical examination or test is not needed
• a patient is travelling a long distance to attend their appointment
• a patient is undergoing regular care that is disruptive to everyday life
• a patient is unable to attend hospital due to a physical or mental health condition.

How does the service work?

You will be sent an appointment letter clearly stating that your appointment will take place over the telephone.

As close as possible to the time of your appointment, your clinician will call you on the number we have recorded for you. Please make sure the contact details we have for you are kept up to date. Please ensure you are available to take your call and that you can be in a quiet, private place.

You will be asked to state your name and date of birth when your clinician telephones you to ensure they are talking to you.