Hospital Waiting Times – Requests to Expedite Appointments

We have noticed an increasing number of patients requesting GP appointments or GP letters asking for outpatient appointments to be expedited. This seems to be mainly due to extended NHS hospital waiting times.

We very much understand and share the frustration caused by current waiting times for outpatient appointments. Please be aware, this is entirely outside of our control.

It is important to note that seeking an expedited letter based solely on waiting times will not get you seen any sooner. When you are referred to the hospital, the request is reviewed by the hospital consultant. This means the hospital team decide on the timescale they feel is appropriate for your condition; requesting a further letter from the GP without any new information will not speed up this process.

If your query relates to cancelling, booking or chasing appointments please contact the hospital department directly that you have been referred to. This is also applicable if you are waiting for results from a test organised by the hospital.