NHSGGC is carrying out validation of our waiting lists to ensure our patients continue to have the same treatment needs and that they can receive the most appropriate care in the correct place. The next phase of this work is the introduction of an automated process, with the assistance of our NetCall software.
Patients who have been referred to NHSGGC for a hospital-based outpatient appointment will automatically receive a text and/or email asking them to confirm whether they still require the appointment now, at a future date, or not at all.
Patients will only be contacted if they have been waiting for a specified number of weeks. This time period will differ across different clinical specialties and some patients may not receive a message.
The text/email will be from ‘NHS-NoReply’ and patients are asked to follow the instructions contained in the message. If you have any queries or concerns, please can contact our Referral Management Team using the following details:
- Telephone: 0800 592087
- Email: appointmentsbookingcentre@ggc.scot.nhs.uk
If a patient tells us they no longer require an appointment, they will be removed from the waiting list and the referring GP will be notified of this.
Please support your NHS by looking out for the text message and if you receive one, respond as soon as possible. Thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a waiting list validation exercise?
The exercise will help us to support patients who have been waiting for their appointment to understand whether the needs of each individual remain the same as when the initial referral took place.
Why is NHSGGC undertaking this work?
In some cases, patients need to wait for a number of weeks for their appointment. This work is being carried out to ensure that everyone who is waiting for an outpatient appointment still needs one and to ensure that each patient’s personal treatment requirements remain the same as when referred.
How long after I am referred will I receive the text message?
The period of time will be different for every clinical specialty.
I have been referred for an outpatient appointment at hospital – will I be contacted?
You will receive an automated text message from NHS-NoReply asking you to click a link. This will take you to a webpage where you will be asked to confirm your preferences in relation to your appointment.
How will I be contacted?
You will be contacted directly by text message. The message will be sent from ‘NHS-NoReply’.
I have only just been referred, why do you need to know if I still need an appointment that has just been made?
Patients will not be contacted immediately. You will only be contacted when you have been waiting for a number of weeks.
Who will contact me?
You will receive an automated text message from ‘NHS-NoReply’.
What should I do when I receive the text message?
Please follow the instructions on the text message, which will ask you to click a link. This will direct you to a website where you will be asked some basic information and to confirm your intention to receive your outpatient appointment.
Who should I contact if I have any questions?
Please get in touch with our Referral Management Team using the following details:
- Phone – 0800 592 087
- Email – appointmentsbookingcentre@ggc.scot.nhs.uk
Should I speak with my GP if I have any concerns?
If you have concerns about your personal health or referral needs, please speak with your GP. If you have concerns or questions about NHSGGC’s validation work or the text message you have received, please contact our referral management team.
What happens if I delete the text message by mistake?
Don’t worry, if this happens, please contact our Referral Management Team who will be able to help.
- Phone – 0800 592 087
- Email – appointmentsbookingcentre@ggc.scot.nhs.uk
I forgot to respond to the text message and I’m worried that I’ve missed my appointment.
If you do not respond to the initial text message, you will receive two further follow-up messages. If a response is not received you will have a letter sent to your address. Please make sure to respond as soon as you are able.
If you do not respond to any of the text messages or letter, this may cause issues for your appointment.
I don’t have a mobile phone. What should I do?
If you do not have a mobile phone, or you haven’t provided your number, you will be contacted by email.
I don’t have a mobile phone or email address. How will I be contacted?
You will receive a letter to your home address with details of what to do.
I am a carer for a family member who have received a referral, will the text message come to me or my family member?
If you are recorded on the patient’s contact details as primary contact, the message will be sent to you. You are asked to respond on their behalf.