Patient Information Booklet (197kb, pdf) If you have never stayed in hospital before you may not know what to expect. The process may vary for each person depending on the type of treatment you require, but generally the following steps apply:
GP Referral
Your GP will discuss the reasons for your referral to hospital with you.
Specialist Consultation
The purpose of this visit is to meet the specialist who will review your GP's referral and recommend the way forward.
Questionnaire
If your specialist recommends further treatment you will be sent a Peri-operative questionnaire to complete and return.
Pre Admission Assessment
Once the hospital receives your completed questionnaire, you may be asked to attend a peri-operative clinic prior to admission to hospital. Alternatively, you may receive a peri-operative telephone call from a nurse requesting some further information.
More about the Peri-operative Service.
Appointment Date
Once you have completed your peri-operative assessment whether by telephone or by attending a clinic, an appointment date will be arranged and you will receive a letter detailing all aspects of the appointment, including the time and date of the appointment, how to get ready for your appointment and what to bring with you.
Date of Treatment
When your treatment date arrives, you will be asked to consent to your treatment in writing.
After your Treatment and Discharge from Hospital
After your treatment you will be monitored closely. When you are well enough and feel able to return home your Doctor will discharge you from Hospital and you will be given individual advice about your recuperation period.
Follow up Appointment/s
If your Specialist/Doctor decides that you require a follow-up appointment, you will either be given your next appointment during your stay, or it will be sent to you via post. If you have any concerns about your progress before this appointment, do not hesitate to contact the hospital and ask for advice.