When your GP decides that you need to be referred to a specialist team in areas such as:

• Ear Nose and Throat
• Gynaecology
• Dermatology
• Psychology
• Ultrasound
• Cardiology
• other specialist teams

You will receive confirmation from us that this has been done, with contact details of who and where your referral has been sent to. However promptly we do this, your referral will then be subject to waiting times for these services which, unfortunately, we have no control over. As you will have read in the media, for some of these services waiting times may be frustratingly slow but please be assured everyone is trying their best to help.

In the meantime should your symptoms become worse then you should contact us to book an appointment with a GP.

When you are contacted by the specialist team please make sure that you respond as requested otherwise you risk the referral being cancelled and needing a new referral. To help prevent this, if any of your contact details change whilst awaiting your appointment please contact the specialist team concerned to avoid missing any texts, calls, letters etc.

If your doctor has referred you to a specialist for further care you will receive a letter from us within 2 weeks giving your NHS e-referral details.

To track your e-Referral you will need the following details to log into the e-Referral website:

• Your date of birth
• Reference number – this will be on the first page of your letter
• Password – this will be on the second page of your letter

To track an e-Referral, click here.

A guide to current waiting times for different specialities/services can be found via this link, by clicking on the down arrow beside 'Time to First Appointment Booking'.

Outpatient guide - CHFT

NHS App 

Check your NHS App to see your Referral wait list times, requests for information and any upcoming appointments.