A Doctor or Advanced Nurse Practitioner (ANP) will sometimes refer you to a hospital or another provider in the community. This may be for more investigations to find what's wrong, or because you need specialist treatment that they can't give you.

You will usually need to have an appointment with a Doctor or ANP before they can make the referral. If you need an appointment, please call Reception, or book via Airmid or the NHS App or submit an eConsult via this website.

Some things you can refer yourself for, without needing to talk to us. Please see the links below for more information

If you want to see a specialist doctor or service privately, instead of on the NHS, please ask your doctor for a private referral.

Once the referral letter has been written it will be sent to you by email. You can then take it to whichever doctor you choose.

How can I choose a hospital?

For routine referrals, you will be offered a choice of hospitals to attend. You can choose this online at www.nhs.uk/referrals or by calling the National Booking Service on: 

• Calling 0345 608 8888
• Texting 0345 850 2250

They are open at the following times

• Monday to Friday 8am-8pm
• Weekends and bank holidays 8am-4pm.

Some providers will also let you book an appointment this way.

Once you have chosen a hospital if you have a question about your appointment or referral, please contact the hospital or service provider directly

How long is the wait?

You can find out more information about waiting times on this website www.myplannedcare.nhs.uk however waiting times will still vary based on the condition you were referred for. Please speak to the hospital appointments team for more specific information

If you have been referred to the hospital but but would find it difficult to get there, you can arrange for hospital transport. You need to do this youself as the service needs detailed information about your house and what support you need

Arrange by calling: 0808 169 9614

The Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) offers confidential advice, support and information on health-related matters.

They provide a point of contact for patients, their families and their carers.

 Phone number for Broomfield hospital PALS: 01245 514 130

Find out more about PALS

Find other PALS Services here