We would like to thank patients who are waiting for a procedure for their continued patience and understanding. We acknowldge the impact of delaying medical care, but please be reassured that we are committed to doing everything we can to provide the best medical care possible during these most challenging of times.
The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in unprecedented pressures across the NHS and has meant that over the course of the last 18 months it has been necessary to postpone many of our planned procedures as we prioritised those who were seriously ill. We are now working hard to address all those whose treatment has been delayed.
Our commitment to providing the best care possible means that we are prioritising patients based on clinical need with doctors doing so in line with nationally agreed guidance. This ensures the most in need patients, including those with cancer, receive their treatment as a priority.
Being open and honest with our patients is one of our fundamental principles, and with the lifting of coronavirus restrictions there may be a significant increase in hospital admissions. This means any dates we do give you for treatment could be subject to further postponement. If this is the case, we will let you know at the earliest opportunity.
Alternative arrangements
Where possible, it may be that you are offered an appointment with a different clinician to the one you expected, or even offered treatment at another hospital to minimise the delay to your treatment.
Concerns about coming into hospital
If you are concerned about coming into hospital for your procedure let us reassure you that we have strict and effective infection control measures in place. The risk of contracting Covid-19 in our hospitals remains very low.
If you no longer need your appointment or procedure.
We know that things can change over time and so if you wish to cancel your planned treatment or no longer need your appointment, please contact us via the contact details on your appointment letter so we can offer that time to another patient.
While you are waiting:
While you are waiting, we would ask you to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This will help with your procedure and subsequent recovery. If in the meantime, if you feel your medical condition, or that of the person you care for, has changed, or worsened, please do not hesitate to contact your GP or your hospital consultant.
Further updates:
We would ask that you do not contact your GP or our hospitals for further updates on the date of your planned treatment as this will not be possible to provide. You do however have our assurance that we will keep you updated as soon as we have any further information on your case and our commitment to undertake your delayed treatment as soon as we can.
Thank you once again for your patience and understanding. We look forward to welcoming you to our hospitals as soon as we can.
