Choose and Book: Your Guide to Specialist Appointments
What is Choose and Book?
Choose and Book is an NHS service that allows you to select your preferred hospital or clinic for your first specialist appointment. You can also choose a date and time that suits your schedule.
For more details or to access the service, visit the Choose and Book website
How It Works
1. Referral from Your GP
- If your GP agrees you need to see a specialist, they will check available hospitals or clinics for your treatment.
- Your GP will dictate a referral letter, which is then typed and processed into the Choose and Book system.
2. Receiving Your Appointment Details
- You will receive an Appointment Request Letter by post, containing:
- A unique booking reference number
- Your NHS number
- A list of available hospitals/clinics
- A password for booking
3. Booking Your Appointment
- You can book your appointment:
- Online using the details provided
- By phone via the national number on your letter
- Note: Some hospitals may require direct booking if their system isn’t linked to Choose and Book.
Can I Book All Appointments Through Choose and Book?
- Only your first appointment can be booked this way.
- Follow-up appointments are managed directly by the hospital.
Hospital Appointment Queries
- For questions about an existing appointment, contact the hospital directly (check your clinic letter for details).
- If you have issues with Choose and Book, call the number on your paperwork or contact the Practice Secretary.
Role of the Practice Secretary
- Types referral letters and processes your request in the Choose and Book system.
- Provides you with your Unique Booking Reference, hospital options, and password.
- If you haven’t received your paperwork within 3 weeks, contact the Practice Secretary to resend or collect it from the surgery.
Need help? Contact your GP practice or visit the Choose and Book website for support.