One way Newcastle Hospitals is looking to cut down waiting list times is the introduction of a text message service for patients waiting to be seen.
By asking patients to confirm if they still need their appointment, services across the Trust can understand who still needs to be seen and identify those who may no longer need their appointment.
This helps staff to avoid unnecessary patient contact and focus on patients that require ongoing care.
Other Trusts which have introduced a similar system have seen an improvement in patient discharge rates, patients confirming to be removed from waiting lists and a significant reduction in did not attends (DNAs).
Up to 10% of patients asked did not require appointments they were referred for, according to a spokesperson from the validation service Netcall.
The service will be rolled out across the Trust in stages to help tackle the waiting list backlog. Patients being cared for under Dermatology will be the first to be contacted, at the beginning of September 2023.
There are many reasons why a patient may no longer require care. These could include using NHS provided care through a different route (for example emergency care); choosing to pay for their care or their symptoms clearing over time.
If you receive a text from Newcastle Hospitals (similar to the image below), please reply so the Trust can see patients as effectively as possible.
For more information, please visit the Patient Hub / Waiting List Validation page.
How does it work?
- You’ll be sent a text message from Newcastle Hospitals with a link to follow.
- Click on this link and confirm your mobile number and date of birth when asked.
- You will then be sent a 6-digit authentication code by SMS.
- Once you receive the authentication code, enter it into the secure page to unlock it and access your account.
- You can view your appointments, simply click on the Referrals tab.
- Once you can see all your referrals, you can select which one you like and respond with:
– I still require my outpatient appointment and want to remain with Newcastle Hospitals. I would be willing to transfer consultant if that meant I would be treated sooner
– I still require my outpatient appointment and want to remain under the same consultant with Newcastle Hospitals
– I no longer require my outpatient appointment as my symptoms have resolved and I am happy to be discharged
– I no longer require my outpatient appointment as I have already received treatment for this condition
– I no longer require my outpatient appointment as I have moved out of the area and am waiting for treatment closer to home
– I would like to speak to someone before I decide (you will be contacted by the Trust). None of the above options apply
For more information, please visit the Patient Hub / Waiting List Validation page.
