The Coronavirus pandemic has had a big impact on the NHS and we are trying to resume routine services and keep patients safe, at the same time as we continue to treat Coronavirus cases.
We are reviewing patients who have been waiting a long time, to understand their current position and treatment wishes, and to help us prioritise those in most urgent need.
We are doing our utmost to ensure you get the treatment you require as soon as possible.
Waiting times
All patients waiting for a routine operation or treatment are prioritised according to their clinical need.
The most urgent cases will be seen within three months. However due to the nature of the current situation, we can’t be certain how long people will have to wait for non-urgent operations. For routine care many patients may have to wait longer than 12 months, particularly if they require a procedure.
Support
All NHS organisations have a Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) which is there to provide support and advice for patients. The PALS service for the hospitals in our area are as follows:
North Bristol NHS Trust
Call the North Bristol NHS Trust Patient Advice and Liaison Service on 0117 414 4569 or email pals@nbt.nhs.uk. The on-site office is currently closed to visitors.
University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust
Bristol Hospitals
Call the Patient Support and Complaints Team for Bristol Hospitals on 0117 342 1050 or email psct@uhbw.nhs.uk. The on-site office is currently closed to visitors.
Weston General Hospital
Call the Patient Advice and Liaison Service for Weston General Hospital on 01934 647216 or email wnt-tr.pals@nhs.net. The on-site office is currently closed to visitors.
Sirona care & health
Call the Sirona Customer Care Service on 0300 124 5400 (8.30am to 4.30pm Monday-Friday) or email sirona.customercare@nhs.net.
What to do if your symptoms get worse
If your symptoms get worse while you are waiting for your operation you should contact your GP or NHS 111 for advice.
Useful information while waiting
There is a range of guidance to help you manage your condition and your wellbeing while waiting for a routine operation or treatment.
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Musculoskeletal (MSK) directory
Use this directory to reduce pain and improve functionality if you are waiting for help with your MSK condition -
Fitter, Better Sooner Toolkit
These resources from The Royal College of Anaesthetists' will provide you with the information you need to become fitter and better prepared for your operation. -
Managing your bone, joint or muscle pain
Advice, guidance and exercises from the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy to help you manage your pain. -
Having an operation during Covid-19
These frequently asked questions may address some of your concerns about going to hospital during the pandemic and how you can prepare. -
What to do if you’re worried about mental health
How to access support, local therapies and online services to help you to look after your mental health. -
5 steps to mental wellbeing
Try these 5 steps to help improve your mental health, feel more positive and able to get the most out of life. -
Health and wellbeing in North Somerset
Find information on services, organisations and groups in North Somerset that can help improve your health and wellbeing. -
Health and wellbeing in Bristol and South Gloucestershire
Well Aware has lots of information and resources to help improve your health and wellbeing, including details of organisations, groups and activities. -
Exercise and keeping fit
Find local information and online resources to help you to improve your physical wellbeing. -
Getting help for drugs and alcohol
Local organisations are available to offer support if you're concerned about your or someone else's drinking or drug addiction. -
Quit smoking
Find local and online help to quit smoking for good. -
What to do if you’re concerned about obesity
Discover more about the health risks of being overweight and how to manage your weight. -
Support hub for older people in Bristol
This new support hub run by Age UK Bristol is helping older people and their families cope with the impact of coronavirus. -
Support for older people in North Somerset
Age UK Somerset offers support to those in later life, older people, their families and carers in North Somerset. -
Support for older people in South Gloucestershire
Age UK South Gloucestershire works in the local community to support older people, their families and carers.