Boring question about hospital clinic times

[FreeChuro]

I have TMJ syndrome and degenerative jaw disease, I had an MRI scan in September and had a phone call after that explaining that they needed a face to face appointment before treatment could go ahead.

I'm still waiting on a letter or call to arrange that and I am in serious pain, I've called a few times but I can never get through, possibly because I work 7.30-6 and I'm calling on my break.

I have a 9am start this week, does anyone know if that would be too early to get through? I'm desperate, thanks

What number are you ringing? Go through switchboard and ask to speak to the appointments office of the department you want to speak to or the doctor’s secretary. They should be able to give you the info.

I'm getting through to the switchboard but no further, it just rings and rings after that

May be worth checking if they have an email? Some of the clinics my son attends have started to accept email contact during the pandemic which makes it easier to contact.
Who called you letting you know you needed an appointment? If you've been referred by a consultant or gp, it's worth contacting their secretary/admin to see if they can chase up appointment. In the department I work in, the admin can see on the system if appointments have been made, they can't make them for a different department if that makes sense, but we can chase up referrals we've made if nothing has been done.
Good luck with it, it's so frustrating sometimes trying to find the right person to speak to!

Ask switchboard for the direct line of the consultants secretary and keep phoning them-they will soon get you an appointment! Or email.

Is there any information on the hospital website about clinic times? Or alternative contact details such as the switchboard?

If all else fails, try a tweet to them asking them to DM you. Assuming you can respond to a call.

If you’re under a consultant definitely try calling the hospital and ask to speak to their secretary. You can get them to leave a message for the consultant re: pain and see if they will squeeze you in sooner. Not sure what I would do without DD’s consultant’s secretary - she is a lifesaver!

If your not getting any where you can always contact the hospital PALS.

PALS, or back to your GP if you can have a sensible conversation with them or make an online request.

Thanks everyone, finally got through- I've been trying since January! Got an appointment booked. Is it really sad I'm excited for it...?