Understanding the Urgent Referral Scheme (Two Week Wait Referral)
Why have I been referred?
Based on your symptoms, your GP has decided that you need an urgent referral to see a hospital specialist. It is important for you to be seen quickly in order to investigate your condition fully.
Remember that the signs or symptoms you have may be caused by a number of common conditions.
Although this does include cancer, it does not mean that you have it.
What will happen next?
Your GP will now send the details of your symptoms to the hospital.
What do I need to do?
Please ensure that your GP surgery has your daytime telephone number so that the hospital is able to contact you. You should expect to receive a telephone call from the fast track appointment office at the hospital.
If you are NOT contacted within two working days please phone 0117 323 6034 between 8.30 and 4.30 Monday to Friday. If you reach an answerphone please leave a short message with your name, date of birth and telephone number.
It is helpful to tell anyone you live with that you are expecting such a call. If you wish them to take the details of the appointment, they will need to tell the hospital that they have your permission.
You will also receive a letter about your appointment date and time, so do not worry if you are not at home to take the call. Your GP will also be notified of the details.
Please ensure that you attend the appointment the hospital has made for you. In the event that you are absolutely unable to attend please contact the hospital to make another appointment as soon as possible (the telephone number to call will be shown on your appointment letter). Please also inform your GP.
What will happen at the hospital?
The appointment will either be for an outpatient consultation or for a diagnostic test; whichever the specialist thinks is most appropriate for you.
When you see the doctor for the first time you may want to ask these questions
- Will I need any tests? If I do, what tests will I need?
- Will I need to stay in hospital?
- Should someone come with me to the tests?
- When will I find out the results of the tests?
- Who will let me know the results?
- What will happen next?