Newcastle upon Tyne Hospital

Newcastle Hospital FAQs

• How do I get an appointment to see a consultant?

  You can book to see a consultant via our Outpatient Bookings team or via our online booking system. Some of our consultants require a GP referral letter prior to the appointment (our outpatient teams will be able to advise of this prior to booking) For cosmetic surgery and GP appointments, a referral letter is not required.

• How long would it take me to get an appointment?

  We endeavour to ensure all private patients will be seen within a few days and at a time that is convenient for you. Our appointments are designed to be flexible around your needs and activities.

• Can I see a consultant for an appointment after work or at the weekend?

  Our outpatient services operate from 08:00 - 20:30 Monday to Friday and Saturday 09:00 - 13:00. Post operatively, if a consultant decided they needed to see a patient urgently this would be co-ordinated by our ward team, you will be given all the relevant information on discharge. The hospital is open 7 days a week, 52 weeks of the year for our patients’ convenience.

• Can I choose which consultant I wish to see?

  Yes, as a private patient you can choose your consultant. You can find all of our consultant’s profiles on our website. Our customer services team are also happy to give you information about our consultants.

• Can I bring a family member or friend to my outpatient appointment?

  If you feel like you need the support of a family member or friend you can bring someone with you, however, we would ask that you limit your chaperone to 1 person.

• Do you offer treatment for children?

  Children can attend for consultations with certain specialities, however, we are unable to provide treatment or some of our listed diagnostic tests for children.

• Would my surgery be conducted by a junior doctor?

  No, our hospital only works with consultants and therefore you can be assured of the highest level of clinical care. Your appointments, surgery and follow ups will be conducted by your consultant.

• What are your hospital infection rates?

  Newcastle Hospital is vigorous in its cleaning standards and keeping our hospitals clean and free of MRSA and C.difficule is a top priority. As a result, the risk of infection to patients is very low.

• When can my family visit if I’m an inpatient?

  Our visiting hours are between 11:00 and 20:00. Your recovery is of paramount importance, and you may find that you are very tired following surgery. With this in mind, visitors may be encouraged to leave earlier. We also ask that visitors are kept at two per bed.

• Is there parking available?

  Yes, we have a private car park for patients and visitors. There are also parking options on Clayton Road and Osborne Terrace just outside of the hospital. (Please refer to local signage.)

• Is there accommodation nearby where my family can stay?

  Yes, there are hotels and bed and breakfasts just a short walk from the hospital on Osborne Road. Newcastle city centre is just a couple of miles away from the hospital offering plenty of accommodation options.

• Services for patients and visitors with visual impairment

  • Braille signage has been installed in the passenger lift at reception
  • Most of the hospital areas include features recommended by the Royal National Institute of the Blind (RNIB)
  • A large button press telephone is available in outpatients
  • Staff will be happy to talk through brochures with you

• I am disabled/require assistance during my visit, who do I need to tell?

  Please let our staff know your requirements when you contact us. We are happy to make suitable arrangements before your visit. If you’d like to bring a friend or family member, please feel free to do so.

• Services for patients and visitors with hearing impairment

  Hearing induction loop systems are provided at reception for the assistance of patients and visitors with hearing impairments.

• Services for patients who require assistance with interpreting

  We can provide telephone interpreting services through The Big Word. Please let us know if you require assistance with this.

• Are visitor meals available?

  Your visitors are welcome to dine with you and can choose from our daily menu. Orders for dinner should be provided to the ward serving staff by 4pm.
  Please note that visitors’ meals are chargeable and these will be added to your room account unless you advise otherwise.