Expediting hospital appointments
What to do if you are waiting for a hospital appointment.
Waiting for a hospital appointment?
We understand that waiting for a hospital appointment can be worrying. There are some steps you can take if you feel your wait is too long or your condition has changed.
What you can do
Check your referral status
You can check the status of your NHS referral using the NHS e-Referral Service (e-RS). You may be able to book or change your appointment online.
Contact the hospital directly
If you have already received a referral, you can contact the hospital outpatient department directly to ask about your waiting time or to request an earlier appointment if one becomes available.
Tell us if your condition has changed
If your symptoms have got significantly worse since your referral was made, contact us. We can review your situation and, if appropriate, contact the hospital to ask for your appointment to be brought forward.
Ask about the NHS Choose and Book scheme
You may be able to choose a different hospital with a shorter waiting time. Ask us about this when you are referred.
NHS e-Referral Service
The NHS e-Referral Service lets you book, check and change hospital appointments online.
Visit the NHS e-Referral ServiceContact us
If you are concerned about your wait or your condition has changed, contact us online or call 0161 357 1600.
Page last reviewed: 2 October 2026. Next review due: October 2027.