How to ask about provider choice

In many non-urgent consultant-led referrals, you can ask about provider choice. This depends on clinical suitability, service availability and NHS referral rules.

How provider choice works

The NHS patient choice framework means that for many non-urgent first consultant-led outpatient appointments, you can choose which hospital or clinic to attend. Your GP can help you explore options using the NHS e-Referral Service (e-RS).

Before asking

• Check what type of referral you have — choice applies mainly to first outpatient appointments for consultant-led services.
• Compare published waiting-time data carefully.
• Remember that shorter published waits do not guarantee a transfer.
• Ask your GP or hospital whether another provider is clinically suitable.
• If you have concerns about your care, contact PALS at your hospital.

Suggested wording

“I have seen published waiting-time information for this specialty. Could you advise whether provider choice applies to my referral, and whether another clinically suitable provider is available?”