ESNEFT outpatient wait times
Once we receive your referral from your GP, it goes through a process called ‘triage’ where we look to see the best way forward for you.
The three options at this stage are:
- To send you for an appointment with a doctor/ nurse or other specialist for you
- To send you for more testing, such as X-ray, MRI scan or other testing
- To send advice and guidance to your GP and allow them to lead your care
For an appointment or testing, you will be contacted as soon as possible to offer you an appointment for the soonest time available. You will receive a confirmation letter of your appointment, which will tell you the day, date and time of the appointment. You may be asked to attend hospital for a face-to-face appointment or a virtual clinic, either over the telephone or using video calling technology such as Zoom.
We have a more detailed waiting time guide (as below) for the different departments, which is slightly different dependent on which hospital you need to visit or speak to.
Your specific waiting time will depend on your personal circumstances, your health, and the department that you need to see.
View the ESNEFT estimated outpatient wait times
While you are waiting for an appointment at ESNEFT
For advice and practical support to help you and those you care for stay well while waiting for treatment, visit:
- Suffolk and North East Essex Wellbeing Support Services
- Going into hospital – Essex County Council
- Adult social care and health – Essex County Council
- Livewell videos
- Want to stop smoking? Livewell article
What to do if your symptoms get worse
If your symptoms get worse while you are waiting for your appointment, test or operation, you should contact your GP or NHS 111 for advice.
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