If you receive a prescription for a supply of medicines this can only be dispensed at the hospital pharmacy. You will have to pay a prescription charge for each medicine unless you are exempt from charges or hold a prepayment certificate (pharmacy staff are required to ask to see proof of your exemption status). The pharmacist will tell you how much you have to pay.

There are different dispensaries in the Trust and some of these also supply medicines for inpatients as well as outpatients, you may experience some delay.

A member of the pharmacy staff will ensure that you know how to take your medicines. Please ask any questions, or if after you get home you have further questions, call the Medicines Helpline on the number at the back of this booklet.

Every effort is made to see patients at their appointment time but unfortunately this is not always possible. Please be prepared in case there are delays (for example, bring along some reading material). If you are worried about the length of time you have waited, please mention this to a nurse in the clinic.

If you need an x-ray or other tests, your appointment could take up most of the morning or afternoon, it is important that you bear this in mind when planning your visit.

You will be under the care of a particular consultant or specialist. Each time you attend an outpatient clinic, you will be seen by either the consultant or a member of his/her team. All staff wear identification badges so that you know who you are talking with.

As this is a major teaching hospital we may ask if you are willing to contribute to student training; this may involve students being present during your consultation or treatments. All students are supervised by senior members of staff. You do not have to take part. If you prefer not to, please tell the medical or nursing staff. If you do not wish students to be present, then this will in no way affect your treatment.