Referrals to specialist services are usually done by the practice over the internet either using the national ‘NHS eReferral service’ or the local ‘Optimise’ website. With either method you will have a choice of which hospital to attend, which includes most of those in England.
When we refer patients to specialist services the referral is administered by the local NHS in a referral management centre and they normally see full information about the referral, including any confidential information. If your GP is referring you to a specialist service and you feel there is any information you wish to withhold from the referral management centre, please inform your GP as soon as possible during normal working hours.
If you experience problems with the referral management centre or wish to discuss its role further, please contact the Patient advice and Liaison Service (PALS) on the following number 01793 708758.