To think the nhs is a mine field sometimes!

[NeedACleverNN]

I was given a referral for an ent specialist nearly a month ago.

Got my letter and called the hospital of my choice to book the appointment. They told me I couldnt book through them but through the switchboard. They will send me a letter with all the details on it and this will take about two weeks.

Fine

Fast forward two weeks and after spending nearly all day trying to get through the switch board have told me....

Yep, you've guessed it, I have to book it with the hospital direct who are now closed for the night.

It's a bloody pain in the arse!

My chosen hospital is still not picking up, so I've ring another number on the paperwork which turned out to be my council.

They have rung the hospital for me and are getting no where either.

So apparently I now have to leave it with them and I will get an appointment in a couple of days

Just some information for you, this sounds like the "choose and book" or recently renamed "e-referral" system. Did your letter have a UBRN (unique booking reference number) probably starting with 0002? From the date you quote this number to the provider of your choice they have a duty of care to treat you (and you have a right to be treated) within 18 weeks. Get in touch with them as soon as possible and make sure you are aware of the status of your referral at each stage to avoid very long waits!