The health care professional making the referral, usually your GP, will complete the referral to the hospital specialist. The hospital specialist will review the information and help decide how quickly you are seen.

Waiting times vary between departments and hospitals. You can check expected waiting times though the NHS website 

• If you have already been seen at the hospital and are waiting for treatment, then please contact the hospital team to get a review.
• If your condition is the same as it was on the day you were referred, then there will be no change in your waiting time, your GP won’t be able to help you get seen any quicker.
• If your condition has worsened and you have not had your first appointment with the hospital, contact your GP surgery.

Anything you can do to stay healthy while waiting will help you.

• If you smoke why not try quitting.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Keep as active as you can.
• If you are diabetic check your blood sugars are controlled
• Check your blood pressure is normal.