The Outpatients Department cares for patients who need appointments, tests or treatment without staying overnight in hospital.
We support a range of clinics and services covering:
- conditions that may need surgery
- medical conditions
- preparing for surgery or treatment
- preventing blood clots
- bone, joint and muscle conditions and injuries
- wound treatment and monitoring
- conditions affecting the stomach, bowel and digestive system
- lung and breathing conditions
- heart conditions
- plaster casts and splints
- blood tests
- joint, muscle and autoimmune conditions, such as arthritis
Where to go
Most outpatient appointments take place in the Gwyneth Huelin Wing at the General Hospital. Some specialist outpatient clinics are also held at:
Your appointment letter will tell you exactly where your appointment will take place and where to go when you arrive.
Referrals
If your GP feels you need to see a specialist, they will refer you to the Outpatients Department. Other hospital clinicians involved in your care can also make referrals.
Once we receive your referral:
- a consultant reviews it to understand your needs and how urgently you should be seen
- your details are added to our waiting list
- appointments are offered based on clinical priority and the date we received your referral
Your appointment
Most outpatient clinics are led by a consultant specialist, supported by a team of doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals.
You may not always see the consultant at your appointment. The clinician you do see will have access to your medical information and will keep the consultant informed about your care.
We do our best to run clinics on time. Sometimes appointments are delayed due to:
- emergencies
- waiting for test results or investigations
We recommend you allow up to 2 hours for your appointment and avoid making other commitments during this time.
Appointment reminders
We send a text message reminder 2 days before your appointment so make sure we have the correct number for you.
What to bring
Read your appointment letter carefully. It may ask you to bring certain items or visit another department for tests.
You should bring:
- your appointment letter and any other information we’ve sent you
- all the medications you’re taking including prescribed, over the counter, and herbal remedies
- a small amount of money for a drink or snack
- updated personal details if anything has changed, such as a new address or GP
- any samples your doctor or nurse has asked for
When you arrive, check in at the main reception. We'll register your attendance, check your details and direct you to the correct waiting area.
Updating your personal details
If any of your personal details change, let the Appointments Department know so we can keep your records up to date. Keeping your details up to date helps us contact you if there are any changes to your appointment or care.
Tell us if you change your:
- name
- address
- contact details
- GP surgery
Ask for a change of details form from the main reception when you arrive.
If you can't attend an appointment
If you can't attend your appointment, or need to change the date or time, contact us as soon as possible using the phone number or email address shown on your appointment letter. If you cancel your appointment, your care may be delayed as clinic appointments are limited.
Missed appointments cost us around £80 per appointment. Letting us know early helps us:
- arrange a new appointment for you
- offer your appointment to another patientFacilities available
Parking and transport
Public parking and transport options are available at the General Hospital and other outpatient locations.
For details about parking locations, charges, disabled parking and public transport, see Getting to the hospital: transport and parking.
Free patient parking is also available on site at the Enid Quenault Health and Wellbeing Centre.
Accessibility and language support
We aim to make services accessible for all patients.
Accessibility
Disabled toilet facilities are available within the Department.
Let us know in advance if you need additional support to attend your appointment.
Language support
An interpreting service is available for languages including Polish, Portuguese, French and Romanian. Contact us in advance so we can arrange this service for you.
If you have other communication or accessibility needs, use the contact details in your appointment letter so we can support you.
Comments, compliments and complaints
We welcome your feedback. If you have a concern during your visit, speak to a member of staff where possible so we can try to resolve it at the time.
You can also give feedback or make a complaint using the Health feedback service. This includes comments, compliments and complaints.
To contact the Health feedback team:
The Feedback Team
4th Floor
Peter Crill House
The General Hospital
St Helier
JE1 3QS
More information about the Health feedback process is available at Feedback on health services and care.