When your clinician at Marks gate Health Centre decides that you need to see a specialist for your treatment, they will make a referral. This referral process typically involves:
- Discussion: Initially you need to make an appointment with a clinician to discuss your symptoms, Your GP will investigate why a referral is being recommended and what choices you have for where you can be referred.
- Referral Letter: The GP will write a referral letter or complete a form that includes details about your medical history and the reason for the referral.
- Booking an Appointment: In most situations, you might receive a letter from the hospital or clinic with appointment details. In some cases, you may receive a reference number and password to book your appointment online or by phone.
Types of referrals:
- Urgent Referrals: For urgent cases, such as suspected cancer, the NHS aims to have you seen by a specialist within two weeks. This is often referred to as a "Two Week Wait" referral.
- Routine Referrals: For non-urgent referrals, waiting times can vary depending on the speciality and the demand for services. It's not uncommon for routine referrals to have longer waiting times.
- Self-Referrals: Few services provide self-referral. You can get in touch with the practice and acquire a link to book yourself, family or friends.
Please find the available self-referral services here