Your commitment to the NHS:
- Keep your appointment or let the GP, dentist, clinic or hospital know as soon as possible if you cannot make it. Book routine appointments in plenty of time.
- If your GP refers you for an urgent appointment (for example, 2 week wait suspected cancer referral) please do your best to fit it in with what they are offering. The appointment offered will be within 14 days of your referral so this might mean re-arranging some pre-existing commitments which are less important.
- If you are unable to keep your appointment, please contact the relevant clinic (you should be given their number) as soon as you can to arrange another appointment.
- Make sure that your GP has your correct address and telephone number; including mobile number if possible.
- Do what you can to look after your own health and follow advice on a healthy lifestyle.
- Care for yourself when appropriate; for example, you can treat yourself at home for common ailments such as coughs, colds and sore throats. For more information on self-care visit the ’Choose Well’ section of our website by clicking here.
- Listen carefully to advice on your treatment and medication. Tell the doctor about any treatments you are already taking.
- Treat NHS staff, fellow patients, carers and visitors politely and with respect. We will not accept violence, racial, sexual or verbal harassment.
- Feedback! Get involved! Tell us when we don’t fulfil our commitment to you or let us know how we can improve. Visit the ‘How you can get involved’ section of our website by clicking here.
