Support and advice

We offer a range of support services for our patients covering practical things like transport and interpreters, as well as emotional support and advice. Click on the links to the left to find out more.

Patient policies

Read our policies for patients on access, and admission, transfer and discharge. 

Patient Access Policy

The purpose of this policy is to outline the approved processes for managing referrals to outpatient clinics, diagnostic procedures and elective procedures and operations, through to discharge, to allow consistent and fair care and treatment for all patients in line with the NHS Constitution measures as set out in the NHS Constitution handbook (NHS England 2013).

This policy sets out the key principles, including standardisation of administrative pathways in relation to patient access, outpatient appointments, diagnostics and admissions bookings, cancer pathways and waiting list management. The Trust aims to provide patients with a seamless service, assuring that all referrals are managed in the same way regardless of which sub specialty a patient is referred to.

“Patients have the right to start consultant-led treatment within a maximum of 18 weeks from referral for non-urgent conditions;

And

Patients have the right to be seen by a cancer specialist within a maximum of two weeks from GP referral for urgent referrals where cancer is suspected. The Trust will provide fair and equitable services to all service users.

• Read the Patient Access policy in full.

Adult Admissio, Transfer and Discharge Policy

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that admission, transfer and discharge of patients is undertaken in a safe, effective, linear and comprehensive manner.

• Read the Adult Admission, Transfer and Discharge Policy in full.