Managing appointments online
Last updated: Tuesday 15 April 2025View your hospital appointment letters online via the NHS app, at a time that is convenient for you.
We’ll send you a notification in the app and there you can view your appointment details. A text message from the number 07860 039092 will contain a link to your appointment letter and you can request to change it if necessary. Links sent to you from this number can be trusted. Learn about DrDoctor.
You will be able to request to cancel or reschedule your appointment via the NHS App, allowing us to offer the appointment to someone else. Or find a single point of contact for any queries you may have. You need to make sure notifications are switched on within the NHS App, and on your phone.
We will also include relevant information including maps, parking details and an overview of the clinic, all in a format that suits you. You can also add your appointment to your mobile phone or email calendar.
This is a secure service provided by DrDoctor which will protect your data and information. Patients who prefer paper letters can still receive appointments by post. You can select paperless preferences in the NHS App. Alternatively, if you don’t download or view your digital letter within three days, we will automatically send you a copy in the post.
For details on how to download the NHS app visit: About the NHS App - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Protecting your personal information
The NHS only sends letters, text reminders and notifications to patients, about their appointments, treatment and care, through secure services such as the DrDoctor patient portal, the NHS app and the Healthcare Communications system.
Our text messages will only come from 07860 039092 (DrDoctor patient portal) or if sent from the Health Care Communications system (Radiology and Breast Screening Service) they will be marked NHS No-Reply.
We do not use other messaging platforms or apps to communicate with patients.
If you are in doubt that a message you have received is genuine, please contact the number on your latest appointment letter or contact our appointment booking teams.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why are we introducing digital letters?
You can view all your hospital appointment information in the NHS App, at any time. You can view your letters quickly and easily and request to change your appointment, if necessary, at anytime.
You will be able to view a single point of contact for any appointment queries. You can add the appointment to your phone or email calendar.
We will also send you a text reminder prior to your appointment.
The new system will also help to reduce our environmental impact by reducing our paper, printing, and postage.
Does it cost me to reply to a text message?
Text message replies will be free if you have a text message bundle with your provider, otherwise you will be charged at your provider’s standard rate.
What is DrDoctor?
DrDoctor is a digital health company working with many NHS Trusts helping them to improve how hospitals communicate with patients.
The new system provides a convenient way for patients to manage their hospital appointments, helping us to develop a better overall experience for patients.
How is my data handled?
To enable us to deliver this service, DrDoctor will have access to your contact information but not detailed information about your health. DrDoctor is accredited to the highest standards set by the NHS for protecting the healthcare information of UK citizens. For more information, please visit the DrDoctor privacy information page.
Do I need the NHS app?
Yes, you will need the NHS app to access your hospital appointments and letters.
You will need to make sure notifications are turned on in the NHS App, and on your phone.
Who do I contact if I'm struggling to view my appointment details via the NHS App?
You can access help on the NHS App at any time by selecting '?'.
You will receive a hospital appointment notification in the NHS App, and a link via text message to view your appointment letter which will arrive shortly after.
For issues with the NHS App contact: Help Centre Home (login.nhs.uk)
Who do I contact if I'm struggling to view my letter on the DrDoctor patient portal?
You can access help via the DrDoctor portal by clicking on the link at the bottom of the page - DrDoctor Patient Support
What do I do if my contact details have changed?
If your contact details have changed, please tell us by calling Main Outpatients on 01925 662003, Switchboard on 01925 635911 or let us know the next time you visit the hospital.
As well as telling us, please also inform your GP practice.
What if I'm living at a temporary address? e.g. students and care homes?
Your postcode will be required to verify your identity when you log in to DrDoctor. Please ensure you use the postcode of the address you have registered at your GP practice.