Royal Surrey Sets Up System to Allow Outpatient Appointments by Phone

Published on: 21 Mar, 2020
Updated on: 24 Mar, 2020

New types of outpatient appointments are being set up by the Royal Surrey during the pandemic to cut the number of patients that need to attend the hospital, reducing face-to-face contact.

From now, most outpatient appointments will be by telephone or via a video call using the Attend Anywhere platform.

Chris Coates, a consultant orthopaedic surgeon and project adviser, said: “For most patients, we can review test results or discuss symptoms over the phone and agree a care plan, without the need for them to travel here.

“The priority for me was to ensure these new appointment types would in no way compromise the care or outcomes of our patients.

“We’re also looking at other options, where you do attend the hospital for a longer appointment and have your diagnostic tests done and reviewed at the same time.”

These changes will help the hospital reduce the risk of spreading infection.

In some cases, a traditional appointment or to attend an appointment in a community setting for diagnostic tests before your hospital appointment will be necessary.

Mr Coates added: “We have been experiencing a very high volume of calls from patients concerned about attending the hospital. These changes will ensure those who don’t need to come in don’t have to.”

More information on these changes can be found under the Outpatients section of the RSCH Trust website.