Planned care is the name the NHS gives to health services and treatments that are needed following a referral from your GP or another community health professional. Appointments and treatments, including surgery are pre-arranged and planned in advance.
Our vision for planned care is a clear treatment plan for your health condition which is easy to access and understand.
We will make improvements in the way referrals to specialists are managed from your GP or care provider, ensuring all patients are sent to the person best able to address their needs. We will also support specialist clinicians to deliver the right course of treatment in a timely way.
Patient choice (Right to Choose)
Patient choice in Essex gives you the legal right to choose where you receive your NHS treatment. This is known as your Right to Choose. It allows you to select the healthcare provider that best meets your needs.
Having choice helps you access services that are convenient, meet your preferences, and support your health and wellbeing.
Find out more about patient choice View our patient choice policyMy Planned Care
The NHS My Planned Care website, gives you advice and support while you wait and helps you to prepare for your hospital consultation, treatment, or surgery. This includes giving you information about waiting times at your hospital and other supporting and local services while you wait.
This site is updated weekly and can be viewed by anyone, which means you, your family or carer as well as your NHS team can all see the latest information.
Your hospital team will be in touch with you as soon as they can. If you are looking for an update, please check this website before contacting your hospital or GP.