NHS Appointments

Firefly123

Hi I received a letter yesterday about a referral for an appointment in December so having no idea what the appointment was for I called to ask them. Was told I need an access code have no idea what they are talking about is this a new thing as I've never had a code.. Thanks 

exdvr

Hi @Firefy123

No it's not a new thing at all in my region.  In order for confidential details to be given out they have to be sure exactly who it is they're talking to.  After all you could be anybody at all, so that is why you need to register your details and get a code that's known only to you.  Very much like how a pin number on your bank account protects your money.

Firefly123

Never had that before thanks for your reply. 

bobives

in this area you have to quote your national health number, it is always on any letter from the hospital.

bobives

the letter from the hospital will explain what the appointment is for and give further information

Firefly123

It doesn't give any information other than its at the outpatient dept in December and I should bring my passport or other ID. Will see when I get there 

bobives

what nationality are you, sorry to ask. but if you are not a uk resident then you will not have nat health number. so passport is to prove if you are eligible for nhs treatment. and not a national health tourist

Firefly123

I'm Scottish so yes British I know my hospital number only thing I had no idea about was the access code they said I need to find out what the appointment was for 

bobives

usually they will find you from your postcode if necessary

topshoes

Hi @Firefly123 did the drs say to you this is how you make a appt yourself ,on the paperwork is a no you phone up to make appt and when you do they ask for a code on paperwork dr give you , say like comfortable or say nutcracker x

Firefly123

No the doctor made it as they said on the phone the code is on the 3rd page of the paperwork of the referral but since I only got the appointment I don't have the code. It must be to have my shoulders scanned. I just have never needed a code before 

topshoes

@Firefly123 dont worry about it then , if you  do ever  have to make a appt dont throw the paper work  away with the code on,  when you made it , as you can not talk to hospital with out it . lol  x 

Firefly123

@topshoes I keep all hospital paperwork as we all should never know when we need refer to it. But yes I've learned we now need an access code lol