From diagnosis to recovery, we’re with you for every moment
If you have an appointment at one of our hospitals or clinics but don’t need to stay overnight, this is called a day or outpatient visit. This could be for a test, treatment or procedure.
Sometimes you may need to stay overnight — for an operation, test, or so our team can look after you while you recover or receive treatment. This is called being an inpatient.
We’ve answered some of the questions you may have before, during and after your hospital stay
Bringing the right items helps make your stay more comfortable
You’ll need to bring:
If you’re staying overnight, a small bag with toiletries, nightwear and a few personal items will help you feel at home.
Read our simple guide to see what’s essential, what’s useful, and what’s best left at home
Secure access to your health information, all in one place
Every time you visit hospital, details of your care are added to your health record — from appointments and test results to medicines and allergies. Keeping this information in one place helps your hospital team plan and deliver your care safely.
With Patients Know Best, you can securely view:
It’s free, easy to use, and available through the NHS App or a web browser. Patients Knows Best contains your health information from May 2023.
Sign up to Patients Know Best and view your record online
A safer, more convenient way to give your consent
We now use electronic consent forms instead of paper-based ones.
This gives you more time to think about your treatment, talk it over with your family or friends, and make your decision in the comfort of your own home. It’s designed to make the process safer, simpler and more convenient for you.
Read our electronic consent FAQs[docx] 11KB to find out more
Expert care, wherever you are
Video appointments are a simple way to have your hospital appointment without needing to travel. They save you time, money and the difficulty of getting to hospital.
We’ve partnered with DrDoctor to provide this service. If you’re booked for a video appointment, you’ll receive a text or email with a secure link a few hours before — just click to join.
Messages from 07860 039 092 are genuine.
Hospital-level care, safely at home
Our virtual wards mean you can get the care you need at home instead of staying in hospital. You may be referred by your GP, hospital staff, or in some cases refer yourself.
If a virtual ward is right for you, your care will be monitored daily — by phone, online or with home visits — for up to 14 days.
You’ll get the same high-quality care, with fewer trips to hospital and more time in the comfort of your own home.
Your safety and wellbeing are our priority
Call for Concern, also known as Martha’s Rule, is a patient safety service that gives you, your family or carers a direct way to ask for urgent help if you notice a change in your condition.
A senior clinical team will listen to your concerns, provide advice and, if needed, visit the ward to review your care. Call for Concern is there to give you extra reassurance that any worrying changes will be recognised and acted upon quickly.
Find out more about Call for Concern
But we will not tolerate violence and abuse
We understand that being in hospital can be stressful, and our staff are here to ensure you or your loved ones receive the best possible care.
We’re training our teams to recognise warning signs and defuse situations early, but violence and abuse will not be tolerated. Emergencies will always be treated, but any violent incidents may be noted on your record.
Some staff may wear body-worn cameras to help protect everyone. These are only switched on during an incident, and you’ll always be told before recording starts.
Footage is stored securely under the Data Protection Act. If you have any questions, please speak to the nurse in charge or a member of the security team.
