We are doing all we can to reduce waiting times and checking to see if patients still want or need their appointment is just one way of doing that.
All hospitals are expected to contact patients on their waiting lists to make sure patients still need their appointments. This could be because their symptoms have got better with time, for example.
Some of our patients will receive a text message to their mobile phone. The text message will ask you if you still need or want to be seen. You only need to respond if you no longer need your appointment.
If you respond to say you no longer need to be seen we will complete a number of checks before removing you from the waiting list. This will include giving you a call to confirm your decision. Normally your records will also be reviewed by your clinical team to ensure they have no concerns about you being discharged. If they do have any concerns they will contact you to discuss your decision.
If there are no concerns about you being removed from the waiting list then we will discharge you and confirm this in a letter to you and your GP.
Who will the text come from?
NHS-noReply
What will the text say?
Dear [your name]
You have a new notification concerning an outstanding referral, please click this secure link.
What do you need to do when I receive the message?
- Click on the link, Sign in using your mobile number and DOB.
- Then enter the verification code in the text message.
- The dashboard will open and then click on referrals.
You will then have with three options
- I would like to go ahead with my appointment
- I no longer want an appointment (my symptoms have resolved)
- I wish to go ahead but delay my appointment.
What happens if I do not reply?
You will remain on the waiting list for an appointment or procedure. If you have a future, appointment or procedure booked it will remain booked
Is my information safe?
Yes. The information you submit will be used to validate our waiting list. Our duty to protect information and confidentiality is taken very seriously.