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Preparing for an appointment FAQs

Why are there delays to my appointment?

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has had a big impact on our hospitals, meaning that some of our patients are waiting longer than we'd like for an appointment, procedure or surgery. We are working hard to reduce our waiting lists, but we continue to face challenges from high levels of demand on  our services.


How long will I have to wait for my appointment?

All patients waiting for a routine operation or treatment are prioritised according to their clinical priority. The most urgent cases will be seen first. Due to the nature of the current situation, we can't be certain how long people will have to wait for non-urgent operations. For routine care, many patients may have to wait longer than 12 months, particularly if they require a routine procedure.


What patient support is available while I wait?

We have a Patient Advice and Liaison Service at Weston General Hospital and a Patient Support and Complaints team in Bristol who both provide support and advice for patients. Here's how to get in touch:

Call the Patient Support and Complaints team for our Bristol hospitals on 0117 342 1050 or email psct@uhbw.nhs.uk

To search for organisations, support groups, community groups, events and activities that can help improve your health and wellbeing in Bristol and South Gloucestershire, visit the Well Aware website.

For support and advice while waiting for appointments at the Bristol Royal Hospital for Children, please call our LIAISE Family Support team on 01173 428065 or email bchinfo@uhbw.nhs.uk


What support is available for carers?

Help, support and advice is available for carers through their hospital journey as a carer and/or patient. Here's how to get in touch,

Contact the UHBW Carers Liaison team by emailing carersliaison@uhbw.nhs.uk

Contact the  Carers Support Centre for Bristol and South Gloucestershire on 0117 965 2200, or for more information visit their website www.carerssupportcentre.org.uk.

For North Somerset, contact Alliance Homes Carers Support team by calling 03000 120 120 and choose option 3. Find out more about the support they offer on the Alliance Homes website.


What should I do if my health condition gets worse?

If your symptoms get worse while you wait for an appointment, you should contact your GP who can assess your condition, and if necessary, arrange further tests or get advice from a specialist. You can also contact NHS 111 for advice.


How do I rearrange or cancel my appointment/treatment?

Please let us know if you need to change or cancel your appointment by getting in touch using the contact details at the top of your appointment letter. You can access our online outpatient's appointment cancellation and rescheduling form on our website.