What a GP referral letter typically contains
- Your personal details — name, date of birth, NHS number, address
- The specialist or service being referred to — which department, hospital, or clinic
- Reason for referral — why your GP wants you to be seen
- Urgency category — routine, urgent, or two-week wait
- Relevant medical history — what your GP thinks the specialist needs to know
- Current medications — what you are taking
Urgency categories
Routine — you should be seen within 18 weeks. Not urgent, but your GP wants specialist input.
Urgent — your GP believes you need to be seen sooner. Typically within a few weeks.
Two-week wait (2WW) — your GP has a clinical concern about cancer. You must be seen by a specialist within 14 days. This is a safety net — it does not mean you have cancer.
Your rights under the 18-week standard
Under the NHS Constitution, you have the right to start treatment within 18 weeks of your GP referral. The clock starts when the hospital receives your referral — not when you receive an appointment letter.
If you are approaching 18 weeks and have not received an appointment, contact the hospital's Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) or your GP. Read our step-by-step guide on how to chase your NHS referral for exactly what to say and who to call.
For a full explanation of your legal rights while waiting, see our guide on RTT rights — what you're entitled to.
Your right to choose
Under NHS Choice, you have the right to choose which hospital or clinic you are referred to for most elective care. If you would prefer a different Trust — perhaps because of shorter wait times — ask your GP to redirect the referral.