Your doctor may decide to refer you to a specialist, or for an investigation that cannot be performed at the surgery. Specialist clinics are usually based at the main hospitals although some are based in the community.
Unless the doctor decides your referral is urgent, referrals are arranged using a system called ‘Choose and Book’. After the doctor has written a referral letter, you will be sent out some information enabling you to choose the location and time that you wish to be seen. The options available will depend on the problem that you have been referred with. If you find this process confusing or difficult we are able to assist with this.
If you need to book ambulance transport for a routine hospital appointment, this is now provided by a company called ERS Medical.
You will need to call the company on 0191 301 7687 if you require transport to an appointment. They will ask you a number of questions to ensure that suitable transport is arranged