Choosing your hospital

Where can I find information about different hospitals?

The NHS Choices website provides information on local NHS services – for example, service performance, the facilities they offer, waiting times and national information about what the NHS does. You can also request information to be provided in a number of different of formats – for example, Braille or large print.

How will I know which hospital to choose?

The NHS provides information on each of the hospitals or clinics on your list so that you can decide which one you would like to use. This information includes local transport details, MRSA rates,waiting times and whether or not the hospital provides services such as car parking, disabled access, a visitor canteen and shops.

There are also star ratings or performance standards – these are based on the information collected to show how health services are doing in relation to some of the main targets set by the Government for the NHS as well as other broader measures of performance. They include information from surveys of patients and staff, and other measures useful to patients and carers.

There are a number of ways you can get this information to help you decide which hospital you want to go to. A leaflet is available to help you choose your hospital - "Choosing your hospital" can be downloaded from the NHS Choices website.

With your agreed password you can do the following:

  • call the Choose and Book Appointments Line on 0845 608 8888 or textphone 0845 8 50 22 50 (calls are charged at the local rate and translation services are available)
  • use the internet and go to the HealthSpace website. If you then select Choose and Book, you can enter the website by giving your appointment reference number, year of birth and password. When you have given these details, you can book an appointment, change an appointment or view the status of your booking.
  • you can compare information between the hospitals or clinics on your list and print off copies. If you do not have access to a computer or printer, your local GP practice may be able to access the same information and print copies for you.

You may also like to visit the Healthcare Commission website which provides more information on how hospitals are rated.

What happens if I can’t decide on a date, time and hospital there and then?

If, for example, you need to check with your family, friends or work before booking your appointment, you can do it later over the phone or on the internet.

You and your GP will choose a number of clinically appropriate hospitals. He or she will then print out an Appointment Request letter for you to take away with you. This will have your appointment reference number, details of the chosen services and information about how to book your appointment later from home using The  Appointments Line, the internet or in some cases by contacting the hospital directly.

Your GP or the practice staff will also give you a password before you leave the surgery. You will need your appointment reference number and your password if you want to book your appointment after leaving the surgery.

Will Choose and Book apply to Foundation Hospitals and Independent Sector Treatment Centres?

Yes. Since 30 April 2006, when referred to specialist care patients should be offered a choice of all NHS Foundation Trusts, NHS Acute Trusts and a large number of Independent Sector providers and their hospitals.

What if I don’t want to choose which hospital to attend?

Some patients will always prefer their GP to make the decision for them. Patient choice means respecting patients who choose not to choose! However, it is essential that you as a patient are given the ability to choose for yourself if you wish.

Why can’t my GP just tell me what the best choice is?

Your choice of hospital may depend on a variety of factors beyond where you will receive the treatment you need, for example:

  • how quickly you can be seen
  • how easy it is for you to get to by car or public transport
  • information on quality of care
  • the reputation of the hospital
  • a recommendation from a friend or family member.

Your GP may help by discussing the options with you, but you may want to make your choice based on a number of personal preferences.

What do I do if I disagree with my GP's recommendation?

When you and your GP agree that you need to see a specialist, you will be able to choose from a shortlist of hospitals or clinics which your GP has determined are clinically appropriate for you. Your GP may recommend you to choose a particular service based on clinical appropriateness; however, you are free to choose from the remaining options as you wish so long as your GP agrees that the service provided is clinically appropriate for your needs.

If you have problems making your choice please contact the Patient Advice and Complaints Service. They will be able to help you and advise you on your personal circumstances.