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FAQ - Having appointment in our clinic

What would happen when I arrive?

Please report to the reception.   One of our receptionists may ask you some questions about your current address and check your telephone number to make sure that your details on our system are up-to-date.   You will then be asked to take a seat in the waiting area.  We have magazines available for you to read while you are waiting.  You can also purchase a book from our charity bookshelf.   There is WIFI access available but it is chargeable.  Please see the posters in the waiting area for details.

If you are attending with a child for a paediatric appointment, you will be directed to the children’s waiting area.  Toys are available for your child to play with while waiting for the appointment.   Please remember to supervise your child at all times.   Can we also remind you for health and safety reasons to put the toys back on the shelf before you leave.

You will be called by one of our Healthcare Assistants or one of our Volunteers who will take you to the appointment room where you will be seen by a nurse and/or a surgeon.

What should I bring with me on the day of my appointment?

Please bring a list of the medications you are taking and your appointment letter.

How long will I have to wait for the appointment?

It varies depending on what type of injuries our staff needs to deal with prior to your appointment, and if there are any trauma patient’s which may take priority.   Please be prepared as the wait may be longer than anticipated so bring some books/magazines with you. There is a TV and a water fountain in our waiting room.

Who will I see at my appointment?

You may be seen by a Healthcare Assistant who will remove your dressing if you have one.   Following this you may see a nurse, a hand fellow or a hand consultant.   You may also be referred to one of our therapists.   This means that you will be asked to return to the waiting area again.

How long my appointment will last?

It depends of a type of condition/injury you have. You may need to have an X-ray or a Nerve Condition Study or after seeing the nurse or doctor you will have to be seen by the therapist.  This means a longer stay in our clinic. Please reserve at least 2 hours for your appointment.

What happens after my appointment?

You will be given a paper which you need to give to our receptionists on the way out. If you need to be seen again, our receptionists will offer you another appointment.   You may also be given an open appointment which means that if your condition gets worse within the next 6 months you can simply contact our clinic to book an appointment.   After that time you will have go back to your GP and get a new referral.

What if things go wrong?

Before you go home you will be given contact details so that if you have any problems when you get home you can contact us.   During office hours you can contact our nurses who will decide if you need to be seen in our clinic. If you have any concerns during out of office hours we recommend going to your nearest A&E.

I am unable to come on the date and time my appointment is. What should I do?

Please contact us as soon as possible. You can ring us on 01332 787290 or email us on: dhft.patientappointmentchanges@nhs.net