At the clinic
When you arrive at the outpatients department please approach a member of staff at the reception desk, who will check you in for your appointment. They may ask you to verify the information we hold in your patient record or ask you for any important information which is missing.
This information is kept in the hospital administration system and will help us to prepare your confidential medical records accurately. Your hospital number is unique to you and will help us to locate your medical records and record your treatment. Please keep a note of it for future appointments or enquires.
Waiting in clinic
Seating space in our clinics is often limited so if you need to have someone to accompany you please try to limit it to just one relative or friend. Delays can occur but our staff should always tell you the reason. If you have a special reason why waiting is difficult, please let us know. If you feel concerned about your waiting time, speak to the clinic nurse or receptionist.
Everyone is seen in order of their appointment time, not in order of their arrival.
How the clinics work
Each clinic has its own routine and a team of medical, nursing, therapy and clerical staff. If you have any queries or need advice regarding your treatment, the clinical staff, including specially trained nurses, will be happy to advise you.
To help you identify staff, ID badges are worn giving each individuals' name and occupation along with their photograph. Information about the clinic staff can be found on the notice board in the waiting room.
Every patient is under the care of a consultant, but you may be seen by another doctor in the team, who will discuss your medical condition and treatment with you.
An identified named nurse will be responsible for your care while you are in the clinic.
At your appointment
Your doctor and clinical team will make sure you are involved in any discussions or decisions about your treatment. You are entitled to a clear explanation of your condition and your treatment choices – including any risks and benefits there may be. So please ask if there is anything you are not sure about.
Teaching and research
We are a teaching hospital, so we might ask your permission for student doctors or nurses to sit in during your consultation. You need not have students present if you are worried about it. You could also be asked to take part in a research project while you are a patient with us. We will always ask for your consent and you will be told fully what is involved.
Your care will not be affected in any way if you choose not to take part in teaching or research.
