Paediatric Cardiology: General information regarding telephone clinics

What is a telephone clinic?

Telephone clinics are outpatient appointments conducted by telephone. A dedicated time period on a certain day will be allocated to you, but rather than the appointment taking place in a hospital clinic, it will be done with you over the telephone.

Why have they been set up?

Telephone clinics have been designed to offer you a more convenient appointment. Outpatient clinics are increasingly full, and some patients travel very long distances to attend clinics as part of a specialist service, so we have set up a telephone clinic to discuss your ongoing health issues and results so that you don't have to come to the hospital.

Will I always be followed up in this manner?

Not necessarily. If your child has no new symptoms or concerns that need action then telephone clinics are ideal. If we wish to see your child to undertake a more detailed assessment, tests or investigations we will ask you to come to the clinic.

How do these clinics work?

As with any other clinic, you will be sent your clinic date and time in the post. During your allocated appointment time we ask you to remain close to your telephone and ensure it is not in use. The number we ring is entirely your choice, but we recommend suggesting a number where you feel comfortable talking to us.

What if I need blood tests or a prescription?

We will arrange for any blood tests or prescriptions to be undertaken via your GP. If this is not possible we will ask for your GP to refer you to your local hospital for blood tests and will contact you if any follow up is needed.

Who, from the hospital, will call me?

Telephone clinics are held by members of the Paediatric Cardiology team who specialise in your child’s problems and who you met at previous clinic appointments.

How do I prepare for the consultation?

It would be useful to make a few notes about any questions that you may have.

What if others want to listen to our consultation?

We will need to hold the consultation with the parent or guardian and sometimes the child. Should you have a speaker phone and wish others to listen in on our consultation that is entirely your choice and decision, but please do tell us at the start of the phone consultation who is with you.

What if I prefer to come to clinic?

The choice to attend a hospital based clinic is entirely yours. The telephone clinic is offered as an alternative for you to choose which option suits you best. If you prefer face to face contact, at any given time, you are very welcome to attend outpatient clinics as before.

What if I am not available at the date and time of the telephone appointment?

Every effort will be made to make an appointment time that is convenient to you. However, if you are unable to make the scheduled telephone appointment. Please call clinic 6 to rearrange the appointment on 01223 274555. Please be aware that if you do not answer the telephone within the first few minutes of your appointment time, that this will constitute a 'did not attend' (DNA) in line with Trust policy.

Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS)

PALS is here to provide help, advice, support and information and to listen to your suggestions and concerns. If you, your relatives or carers are unhappy with any aspect of your care during your outpatient telephone clinic, please speak directly to a member of the paediatric cardiology team as soon as possible on:

01223 256920

If you feel unable to speak directly to staff, then contact PALS on 01223 216756 or Email PALS.