You will see different members of staff in the outpatients department. All staff should be wearing a name badge which also states what their role is, below are the people you are likely to see when you come to hospital for your appointment. 

The Receptionist

The staff at the reception desk will most likely be your first point of contact when arriving for your appointment, they will welcome you and check your details.

Your Consultant Team

Consultants work with a multi-professional team of people from different professions offering a variety of skills. Your appointment may be with the consultant or with one of the team, and if so they will make sure that  the Consultant is fully informed of your condition.

The Nurse

The lead clinic nurse is responsible for the running of the clinic. If you want to know who they are, or would like to meet with them, please ask at reception. You may also see a specialist nurse who works with the Consultant. 

Other Staff

You may also see other people such as Health Care Assistants, physiotherapists, porters, occupational therapists, dieticians, pharmacists radiographers and sometimes medical photographers

Our housekeeping staff make sure the department is clean, but if you have any worries about the standard of cleanliness please tell the receptionist. 

Training Tomorrow's Staff

We do have staff in training such as medical students, student nurses, physiotherapists and occupational therapists.

Students improve their clinical skills by working under the supervision of experienced staff and by having direct contact with patients. We might ask if you agree to a medical student or other trainee being in attendance during your appointment, you can say no if you are not comfortable with this; be assured that the care you receive will not be affected. If you have any concerns please speak with your doctor or nurse.

We might also ask you to take part in a clinical trial or research study. These are important for developing treatments for the future. Again, you can say no and this will not affect the care you receive. Please speak to your nurse if you have any concerns or questions about clinical trials.