PATIENT CHOICE
If you and your GP decide that you need to see a specialist for further treatment, you can choose where to have your treatment from a list of hospitals and clinics. Patients have always had a choice in fact but GPs are obliged to make an electronic referral now, rather than send a letter to a specialist.
Most people will be able to choose from at least 4 hospitals- as long as they meet your health needs.
Your doctor will talk to you about what your choices are and help you decide. The Practice has leaflets 'Choosing your Hospital' which tells you more about the service and the various hospitals in the area.
Your doctor will give you the details you need to make your first appointment with the hospital.
There are still some services which are not available under the new system, for these a standard referral letter will be sent in the usual way and the hospital will contact you with an appointment.
The contact number for the booking service is 0845 6088888
Go to the Choose and Book website www.chooseandbook.nhs.uk