Referrals & Patient Advice

If your GP decides you need to be referred to a specialist you can choose (in most cases) which hospital you would like to go to. Once you have been referred you can ring and arrange your own appointment. Ask for a leaflet or visit www.nhs.uk/healthspace and select choose and book.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is my password?

When we generate the paperwork for you, we usually print your password as well on a separate sheet. Initially this is two random words but you are allowed to change it. If you have received a reminder letter to book your appointment and you do not know your password, we can reprint the required paperwork for you.

I have only been referred to Newton Abbot Hospital, can I go somewhere else?

Usually this is an Orthopaedic referral. If you call the printed number, you will speak to someone who will be able to organise a suitable appointment time and hospital location for you. However, if this is for a Paediatric Orthopaedic appointment, there is only a local service at Newton Abbot.

My appointment is for a telephone call - surely I need to be seen at the hospital?

Some services prefer to review our referral letter before making you an appointment. This allows the hospital to book you any tests that may be required before you see the consultant. As a result, you may need to visit the hospital fewer times overall.

Can I be seen at Brixham / another hospital?

Not all services are available at all hospitals. Where available, we include Brixham and Paignton Hospitals in your choices as these are the most local. However, if you need to add further choices, please call the surgery and we will be happy to organise this for you.

One of my choices is a private hospital - will I have to pay?

Some private hospitals do offer some NHS services. If you have an NHS appointment request, you will not be expected to pay for your appointment.

Whenever I call to make my appointment, there are no appointments available - what do I do?

There is a Patient Choice Helpline available on 0845 883888 who can ensure this is correctly followed up. However, you may have been informed that you have been added to the list for the hospital to contact you.

I am having problems booking my appointment online - what do I do?

There is still the option to telephone and book an appointment on the printed number. However, you may wish to speak to the Patient Choice Helpline on 0845 883888 first if you would still prefer to book the appointment yourself.

I have missed my appointment - what do I do now?

If you have missed an actual hospital attendance, it is likely that we will need to refer you again. If you have missed a telephone review, these appointments are on or after that time so you can still ring to obtain the results and make an appointment if required.