Step 1 — Call your GP surgery first
Before calling the hospital, call your GP surgery and ask: "Can you confirm the referral to [specialty] at [hospital] was sent, and when?" Ask for the date it was sent. This is your starting point.
Step 2 — Call the hospital
Call the hospital's main switchboard and ask to be connected to the outpatient appointments team for the relevant specialty. Have ready:
- Your full name and date of birth
- Your NHS number
- The date your GP sent the referral
- The specialty you were referred to
Ask them to confirm whether the referral has been received and what your current waiting position is. Ask for your RTT clock start date.
Step 3 — If approaching 18 weeks
If your referral was received more than 15 weeks ago and you have no appointment date, contact PALS at the Trust. You are approaching the boundary of your NHS Constitutional right.
Step 4 — Request a transfer
Under NHS Choice, if your current Trust cannot see you within 18 weeks, you are entitled to be seen at an alternative provider. Ask your GP or PALS to check waiting times at neighbouring Trusts.
If symptoms worsen
Do not wait passively if your symptoms worsen — contact your GP immediately, separate from the referral chase.
For a full explanation of the rights you are entitled to while waiting, read our guide on RTT rights — what you're entitled to.