Outpatient appointments

Before your appointment

Your appointment letter should tell you if you need to do anything before the appointment (for example, instructions regarding eating or drinking). If you have any queries please telephone the number at the bottom of your appointment letter.

It is a good idea to write down any questions you may want to ask during your appointment before you come to the hospital. It can also be helpful to bring a pen and some paper to the appointment so you can write down any notes as it can sometimes be difficult to remember once you leave the clinic.

Your appointment

When you arrive at the clinic please report to the reception desk. The clerical staff will check your details and direct you to the appropriate waiting area.

The doctor or nurse will ask you some questions. You may be examined, given treatment or sent for tests. Any treatment or tests required will be discussed with you.

We strive to offer all patients the time they require. As a result, the time you spend with the doctor or nurse will vary according to your needs. Inevitably, this means some clinics may run late, so please remember you may be with us longer than expected. Delays in clinic may also occur if:

• a doctor is held up on one of the wards with a patient who is ill and requires their attention
• other patients may need to be seen urgently

The outpatient staff will keep you informed of any delays.

If you arrive earlier than your appointment time this does not necessarily mean you will be seen any earlier. Patients are usually seen in order of their appointments. Please help the clinic staff by arriving for your appointment on time or as close to the time as possible to reduce congestion in the clinic.

Please bring with you:

• your appointment letter
• a list of all tablets and medicines with you and notify the doctor of any changes to your medication
• any samples requested

Many people find it helpful to be accompanied to an outpatient's appointment with a family member or a friend. This is welcomed.

Parking

Please park in the main visitors' car park. This is sign posted as you enter the main hospital drive.

Missed appointments

If you don't turn up for your appointment or cancel in good time, we have to reschedule the appointment, which results in you and other patients on the waiting list, waiting longer to be seen. We know that sometimes there are good reasons why you are not able to make your appointment, but it's important that you let us know if you are not able to attend, or no longer want your appointment as soon as possible.

If you are no longer able to attend your outpatient appointment at Noble's Hospital, please give us as much notice as possible by contacting: