When you are referred to see a specialist

This leaflet provides guidance on what to expect when you are referred by your GP to see a Specialist (or Therapist). Please read this information carefully – it may save you an unnecessary trip to the surgery by talking this process through with your Specialist.

Tests & Investigations

All tests and investigations required by the specialists must be ordered by them and the appointments sent to you.

If the specialist requires blood tests he/she should give you a request form which you can take to whoever normally provides blood tests in your area. This varies and may be your surgery, hospital or community clinic.

The specialist is responsible for acting upon the results of any test he/she requests and for informing you of the results.

If you haven’t heard from the specialist about a test result please ring his or her secretary at the hospital. Unfortunately your surgery may not know the result and will not know what the specialist intended to do with the information.

Prescriptions

If the specialist prescribes a new medication or changes one that you are on please ask them to provide you with the first prescription. This may be on a white prescription that can be used in the hospital pharmacy or on a green one that you can take to your normal pharmacy.

Upon notification from the specialist your surgery may automatically add the medication change to your repeat list on the computer. You will then be able to order re-supply without an appointment. You may need to telephone your surgery to confirm this or use on-line services if you have registered for them.

If you are uncertain what changes the specialist is making please ask them to explain it to you at the appointment. It saves you having to see your GP to discuss something he or she may only know of from a short letter of explanation.

Sick or Fit Note (Med3)

If you need to be certified as unfit for work as a result of the treatment provided by your specialist (or therapist) he or she should issue a sick note for the appropriate length of time when you are discharged from hospital or seen in the clinic. Please ask for one if you need it.

Follow Up Appointments

If you need to be seen again the hospital will provide you with another appointment. Please ask the specialists’ secretary if it does not arrive in a timely way.

In summary, the specialists are responsible for:

• Looking after all the tests the Specialist/Therapist has requested
• Providing a prescription if a new medication is prescribed or he/she changes one that you are on
• Issuing a sick note if required for the appropriate length of time
• Providing you with a follow up appointment if necessary.