Staying on our waiting list

We may send you a text message or letter to ask if you still need an appointment.

You'll get a letter or text from each of the care teams you see, so you may receive multiple messages: please respond to each.

You can tell us your choice online, on the phone, or by email.

We'll update your care record when we hear from you.

Keep your place on our waiting list

Please tell us if you still need an appointment, and we will try to see you as soon as possible.

If you do not want or need your appointment

Tell us if you do not want an appointment or if you’re unsure you still need your appointment.

You may have seen a different healthcare provider, or your health may have improved without treatment.

We will:

  • review your condition before taking you off our waiting list
  • write to your GP and discharge you back to their care. 

Please speak to your GP if you need to see us again in the future.

Tell us online, on the phone, or by email

Online

If we have your mobile number, we’ll send you a text message with a link to tell us online.

The text message will be from our online appointment letters service, DrDoctor. It will include a link to DrDoctor.ThirdParty.nhs.uk.

To tell us online:

  • click the link in the message
  • follow the instructions
  • we will ask some questions to check it’s you.

You may get a paper letter if you don’t open the link.

If you can’t use DrDoctor, you can update your records by phone or by email.

Phone call

The telephone number is in your text message or letter. Our lines are open Monday to Friday, 9am to 3pm.

You will need:

  • your hospital or NHS number
  • the reference number in your letter or text message.

Tell our team that you’re calling about staying on our waiting list. Our call handlers cannot give out medical advice.

Email

Use the email address in your letter or text message.

Please include:

  • your hospital or NHS number
  • the reference number in your letter or text message
  • whether you still need your appointment.

What happens if we don’t hear from you

We’ll send you a reminder if you don’t respond to your text messages or letters.

If we still don’t hear from you, we may write to your GP and discharge you back to their care. Please speak to your GP if you need to see us again in the future.