People awaiting hospital treatment to get three weeks’ notice under NHS England plans
Summary
NHS England will give patients at least three weeks' notice before their hospital appointments to improve communication and reduce anxiety. Hospitals will update patients through the NHS app, letters, or texts about referral acceptance and waiting list status.Key Facts
- Patients waiting for hospital treatment will get at least three weeks' notice before appointments.
- NHS England wants to improve how hospitals communicate with patients about their care.
- Research showed many patients previously received appointment information after the scheduled date.
- New standards aim to give patients clear updates similar to online shopping notifications.
- Patients will be informed when their GP referrals are accepted and when they are on the waiting list.
- About 6 million people in England are waiting for roughly 7 million hospital tests, operations, or appointments.
- The NHS app, used by over 40 million people, will send notifications, with letters or texts available as alternatives.
- NHS leaders say good communication is as important as reducing waiting times.
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