NHS Forth Valley – Urgent Hospital Referral

It can be a worrying time for people when they are told they have to see a hospital doctor. On this page are the answers to some common questions.

Why have I been referred to the hospital?

Your GP thinks that you should have further investigations to determine the cause of your symptoms, and would like you to be seen at the hospital as soon as possible to rule out any serious condition such as cancer.

What happens now?

Your doctor will send information about your condition to the hospital where a specialist team will consider this information and either send you an appointment to see the hospital doctor or arrange for further investigations to find out what is wrong with you. Often these investigations are arranged before you meet the hospital doctor. This saves time and allows a more efficient service.

If you cannot make the appointment that is sent to you, please contact the number on the hospital letter and they can help to get a new date that is suitable for you as quickly as is possible. This also means that someone else can have your appointment slot. In this situation, the hospital staff phone patients to offer them a “cancellation”- you may get phoned if someone else has cancelled their appointment. Please ensure your GP Practice has up-to- date contact numbers including mobile numbers.

When will I hear anything?

You should hear from the hospital quite soon, usually within a couple of weeks which is within Scottish Government guidance.

Who will I see at hospital?

You may or may not meet a specialist doctor at your first visit to hospital. You will probably meet a few other healthcare professionals as they work in teams. Each member plays a significant role in making sure you get the best care as quickly as is possible to find out what it is that is causing your problem. There may also be telephone contact from the administrative staff whose job it is to make sure your appointments are suitable for you.

How do I get help or any other information if I want it?

If you have any questions or require any more information, please contact the team at the hospital on 01324 566640. It is important to know that this team are administrative staff. They are not medically trained, but should be able to explain to you what is likely to happen when you attend any hospital appointment.

If you require any clinical information regarding your condition they will contact a doctor or nurse to speak with you.

If you require transport please call 0300 123 1236.

Remember to advise them if you have any special needs i.e. wheelchair access.