Who can I bring with me?

Patients can be accompanied to outpatient or diagnostic appointments by one person.
Guidance for outpatient departments should be followed in relation to patients and visitors attending these areas. Read about any current restrictions or advice.
The patient support hub can assist if you require a companion to support you in clinic.

What to bring with you

Please have the following information available no matter if your appointment is virtual or in person:

Your appointment letter (access to a digital copy)
Information about you - address, telephone number and GP details
Your GP will send relevant information to the specialist as part of your referral, however, please have any information about your past medical history that the doctor or nurse will need to know. This is important so we can make sure that we can make the right decisions about your care.
Information about the medicines you are taking, as this may have changed since you were referred to us. We will need to know what you are taking and how often you take it. This includes tablets, injections, liquids, creams, inhalers, and eye drops.
Information about any allergies you have.

Specific information

There are several patient information leaflets available which may provide specific details regarding your appointment.

Is it okay to ask lots of questions?

Absolutely. This is your opportunity to talk to your doctor, nurse, or other health care professional and to feel fully informed before you leave your appointment. We want you to be involved. Please read more about shared decision making.

How long will my appointment last?

It is difficult to give a specific timeframe as this depends on the department you are visiting. Please allow plenty of time if you are travelling to the hospital for the journey, parking, finding the department and for the appointment itself, which may include other tests and could be up to 2 hours or sometimes more.

For telephone or video appointments please ensure you have a private space that you able to talk in and although the team will try to ring you as close to your appointment time as possible, please be available to talk an hour before and after your appointment time.

Will I meet students during my appointment?

UHS is a teaching hospital, and it is possible that you will meet student doctors, nurses and other trainee clinical staff. Students at all stages of their training may be involved in your direct care under supervision, or you may be asked to discuss your condition with a student.

Please note that you have the right to refuse to be seen or treated by students and this will not affect the rest of your care at UHS in any way.

Will any samples or specimens be taken from me?

Sometimes samples or specimens are taken during your appointment or treatment to help us understand your condition or to plan further care. You will be asked for your consent for these samples or specimens to be taken.

Will I be asked to take part in health research?

You may be asked to take part in health research, but please feel free to ask about this in your appointment if it has not already been discussed.

You can find out more about taking part in health research trials.

Is smoking allowed in the hospital grounds?

UHS is a smoke free site. Information on smoking is available here.

Together we'll create a healthier future - Supporting people to live smoke-free lives