Coming for an outpatient appointment

We provide a full range of outpatient services from both of our hospital sites wherever possible so you can access your first appointment at the most convenient hospital for you.

It's really important that you try to attend your hospital appointment. If you have been asked to come and see us at the hospitals it is because your doctor thinks you should see a specialist expert about your health and you may need some important treatment.

Before your appointment

You will receive an appointment letter with details of your appointment. Please double check the venue for your appointment so you are clear where you are going. We have two hospital sites (Halton and Warrington) and provide services elsewhere in our communities. Visit our locations page for more information on our sites.

Some outpatient appointment letters may also have particular instructions to expect tests or medications and information on things to bring with you.

Preparing for your appointment

If you are an outpatient you will be coming to our clinic for one of the following:

• to find out what is making you ill if you have been referred by your GP
• a check up after treatment
• to allow your consultant to monitor a condition you still have

Each of the clinics is led by a consultant and staffed by doctors and nurses trained in the condition or procedure covered by the clinic. Some appointments will be with a specialist nurse, or you may see one of the doctors working with the consultant.

Please follow any instructions in your appointment letter. It will also be useful if you can bring a list of any medicines or other conditions you have which may help our staff.

Managing your appointments

Changing or cancelling appointments

If you can't make your appointment or no longer need it, please let us know with as much notice as possible by calling the number on your appointment letter, using the UK Text Relay or by cancelling / rearranging it using the cancellation form.

Managing appointments online using the NHS App

You can now view and request to change your hospital appointments at a time that is convenient for you via the NHS App. Details such as clinic information, maps and parking information are also included, along with a single point of contact for any queries you may have.

Read more about how to manage your appointments online.

Interpretation services and mobility requirements

If you require an interpreter, signing support or have other communication needs or if you have any mobility requirements that we need to know about before you arrive, please let us know by calling the number on your letter or use the Relay UK service.

Travel and parking

We provide outpatient services at both of our hospital sites.

Find out about car parking and parking concessions.

We also operate a regular free shuttle bus service between Warrington Hospital and Halton Hospital. 

Find out how to travel to our hospital sites via public transport or by cycling.

You can also read about Hospital travel cost schemes (HTCS).

What to expect when you arrive

As an outpatient you are likely come into hospital for a short appointment. You will not need to stay overnight in hospital - although very occasionally your consultant may feel that your condition requires an urgent hospital stay.

You may have a blood test or other minor diagnostic test during your visit depending on your condition. Your consultant may refer you for further tests if they feel it is appropriate, or prescribe medication for you. If a medication is urgent it will usually be prepared at the hospital pharmacy for you to collect. if it is not urgent you will be given a prescription that you will need to take to your GP practice.

If you need any other diagnostic tests such as scans you will be given a further appointment - although where it is possible you may see your consultant and then have tests carried out on the same day so that we can quickly diagnose you and save you having to come back to hospital. We will try to let you know in advance if we plan to do this so you can plan your time effectively.