FAQs
Q: How do I get a referral to the pain management centre?
A: If you have been living with persistent pain for 3 months or longer, then you should speak to your GP. They will be able to make a referral to our service if this is appropriate.
Q: How long will I have to wait for an appointment once I have been referred to the pain management centre?
A: Once you have been referred to our service, as per NHS guidance you should have your first appointment within 18 weeks. We endeavour to book your first appointment much sooner than this, however it is difficult to say exactly how long the wait will be as this is constantly changing due to service demand.
Q: I can’t attend my appointment, what should I do?
A: If you cannot attend your appointment then you should let us know as soon as possible by calling 01603 288453. If you do not turn up for your appointment and you have not called to let us know, then you may be discharged from our service.
Q: How long will I have to wait for my next appointment?
A: This depends on the outcome of your initial appointment with our service and it is hard to say exactly how long you will be waiting for. As per NHS guidance, we endeavour to see patients within 18 weeks, however in some circumstances your wait may be longer.
Q: How long will I have to wait for my procedure?
A: As per NHS guidance, we endeavour to arrange procedures within 18 weeks of you having been added to the waiting list, however in some circumstances your wait may be longer. Unfortunately due to the COVID-19 pandemic, our waiting lists are currently considerably longer for procedures.
Q: I haven’t received a letter after my appointment, what should I do?
A: If your clinician has written a letter after your appointment then you should receive this within two weeks.
Q: What if I am unhappy with my care at the pain management centre?
A: If you are unhappy with your care and wish to make a complaint, then you may do so by contacting the Trust’s formal complaints team by telephone: 01603 289684 or 01603 289686, or by email: complaints-team@nnuh.nhs.uk
If you would like to contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS), you may do so by contacting: 01603 289036, or 01603 289045, or by email: pals@nnuh.nhs.uk