Many people in England do not realise that, under the NHS Constitution, you may have the right to choose where you receive planned treatment. That can include another NHS hospital or, in some cases, an independent hospital providing NHS-funded care. The NHS still pays for the treatment in the usual way. About NHS: choosing a hospital

What the right to choose covers

In many cases you have a legal right to choose where you are referred for your first outpatient appointment, when that referral is for planned, consultant-led NHS care. You can often also choose a clinical team led by a named consultant.

It does not usually apply to emergency or urgent care, and it does not apply in every situation. Your GP or hospital team can tell you whether it applies to your referral.

Minimum standards for planned patient care

The 18-week standard

For most non-urgent consultant-led treatment in England, you have the right to start treatment within 18 weeks of referral. If you have already waited longer than this, or you are told that you are likely to, the NHS should take reasonable steps to offer a suitable alternative provider who could see you sooner, if one is available.

This does not apply where it is clinically right for you to wait longer, where you choose to wait longer, or where the service is excluded from the 18-week standard.

Guide to NHS waiting times in England

What to ask

If you are waiting for planned treatment such as a hip replacement, knee replacement, cataract operation or another non-emergency procedure, speak to your GP or hospital team and ask:

• Can I choose a different NHS-funded provider with a shorter wait?
• Can I see waiting times on My Planned Care or in the NHS App?
• If I have already waited more than 18 weeks, can my ICB offer a suitable alternative hospital?

A calm question at the right time can sometimes reduce a wait by weeks or months. It is still your GP or specialist who decides whether a referral is clinically appropriate. You cannot usually self-refer.

Scotland and Wales

The right described above applies to patients in England. Scotland and Wales have different arrangements. People there may still be offered treatment at another hospital if that helps reduce a wait or gives access to a specialist service. Ask your own GP or health board.

Coping at home while you wait

A long wait is tiring for the person who needs the operation and for the family supporting them. Some households manage with extra help at home in the weeks before admission, and again when they first come home from hospital.

If that would help, we can talk through short-term live-in care and support after a hospital stay. There is no obligation. Call 01603 764567.

This article is general information, not legal or medical advice. Always check your own position with your GP, hospital team or your local Integrated Care Board (ICB).