Rheumatology - About Us

Rheumatology is a branch of Medicine, that specialises in diseases of the bones, joints and muscles.

Advice for Out-patients

Either your General Practitioner or Hospital Consultant has requested a consultation for you in the Rheumatology Out-Patients.  We hope this information provides you with some guidance on what to expect.

You may have an injection following your consultation. This could effect the validation of your driving licence for a short period of time. If you are driving, please check with your insurers before attending.

Who Will I See?

We have five Consultant Rheumatologists and an Associate Specialist. You will be assigned to one of these although you may not be seen by them personally at each visit.

Following your consultation, a letter will be sent to your GP giving a full report. Please allow at least 14 days for this letter to reach your GP.

What Do I Do Before Coming to Clinic?

Think about your main problems so that you will be able to tell the doctor. (If you feel it would be helpful, make a note of your main points).

• Bring all your medicines with you in the original packaging or bottle.
• Bring a specimen of urine (in a sealed, clean container).
• Please wear clothes that can be easily removed, as you will be examined during your consultation. (A nurse will be available to help you, if necessary).
• PARKING - Please allow plenty of time in case parking is difficult. There are a number of designated parking spaces for the disabled at each hospital.
• What Happens When I Arrive at Rheumatology Reception ?

Please note: The doctor may not be able to see you if you arrive late.

• Your details will be checked at each visit if necessary. (Name, address and GP).
• You will be directed to one of the waiting areas.
• A nurse or health care support worker will weigh you, measure your blood pressure and test your urine.

What happens in Clinic?

• You will be called from the waiting area to see the doctor.
• The doctor will ask you about your symptoms and about your medical history. You will also be asked about the medication that you are taking, so please have your medicines ready.
• You may be asked to go into the adjacent examination room to get undressed. A nurse will help you if required.
• After the examination you will be invited back into the consulting room to discuss what the doctor has found and any investigations and/or treatment.
• Either a nurse or the receptionist will explain any forms that you may have been given and will advise you on how investigations are arranged.
• Please return to the reception desk with the routing card and any forms you have.
• Staff will keep you informed of any delays in clinic timings.
• Money or an exemption certificate may be needed for prescriptions.
• An appropriate benefit book and receipt are needed to claim traveling expenses.
• Please note taxi fares can only be refunded if approved, for medical reasons, by your Consultant.

If you have any concerns, the nursing and clerical staff will do their best to help you.

Comments and Complaints

We try our best to offer an efficient service and welcome any comments.

If you have a complaint, it would be appreciated if you would discuss this with one of our senior staff in the first instance.

Copies of the Complaints Procedure are available.

Who Do I Contact if I Have a Query?

If you wish to postpone your appointment for non-medical reasons please ring:

023 9228 6638 or
023 9228 6831
8.30am - 5.00pm (4.30pm on Friday)