Automated calls for patients awaiting first outpatient appointment – FAQs

Automated calls for patients awaiting first outpatient appointment –  FAQs image

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Patients in Worcestershire who are waiting for a first hospital outpatient appointment are being contacted by an automated telephone calling system. During the call, they will be guided through a series of questions to update the referral with current information and confirm whether the appointment is still required.

Are all patients on waiting lists getting automated calls?

All patients awaiting a first appointment at Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust will receive an automated call who are:

  • above the age of 18 (exception is Orthodontics which is from the age of 16), 
  • have been waiting longer than 30 weeks for a first outpatient appt,  
  • where we have a valid mobile phone number
  • do not have any appointments booked in the future.

What telephone number will show up on my phone when I receive my call?

The number that will show up is 01905 814106.

How will I know if I’m going to get a call?

If you are on the list to receive an automated call, you will receive a SMS/text message in advance to let you know you will be receiving an automated call about your appointment.

What happens if I miss my call?

If you are not reached on the first call, or the call goes to an answerphone, the automated caller will try another day. If three consecutive calls are missed, a human operator will try calling two more times. If the call has not been answered after three automated caller calls and two human operator calls, you will remain on the waiting list and be invited to an appointment by phone call or letter direct from Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust.

What if I’m hearing impaired?

Hospitals are still using letters and human callers to reach those who otherwise cannot accept an automated call.

How does the automated caller know if it’s the right person they are speaking to?

The caller will ask you to confirm your date of birth and that you are awaiting an appointment at a specific speciality. Carers can also respond on behalf of those they care for.

Will I be asked to give any personal details?

You will only be asked to confirm your date of birth but no other information. The NHS will never ask for bank details or other personal information not related to your healthcare.

What if I answer the wrong way, will I be taken off the list?

You will receive a letter stating that you have been removed from the waiting list and so will your GP.  If this is incorrect, contact details will be included for you to advise us this is incorrect, and you will be reinstated as though you were not removed. 

What if someone else answers the call?

Where a landline number is used the automated caller will ask to confirm your date of birth and that you are awaiting an appointment at a specific speciality.

What if I hang up thinking it’s a scam caller?

If you are not reached on the first call, or the call goes to an answerphone, or otherwise is disengaged, the automated caller will try another day. If three consecutive calls are missed, a human operator will try calling two more times. If the call has not been answered after three automated caller calls and two human operator calls, you will remain on the waiting list and be invited to an appointment by phone call or letter direct from Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust.