Specialists
Dorking Hospital Outpatients Department
Dorking Hospital,Horsham Road,Dorking, Dorking RH4 2AA
Overview
Dorking Hospital Outpatients Department is part of the NHS healthcare infrastructure serving the Dorking area of Surrey. Located on Horsham Road in Dorking, this outpatient facility provides specialist and general medical services to local residents and surrounding communities. The department handles a range of outpatient appointments, allowing patients to receive diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care without requiring hospital admission.
The outpatients department typically offers consultations across various medical specialties, diagnostic services, and follow-up care for patients referred by their GPs or other healthcare providers. It serves as an important hub for non-emergency healthcare delivery in the region, helping to manage patient flow and reduce pressure on accident and emergency departments. The facility is accessible via the postcode RH4 2AA and operates within the NHS system, with services provided on a referral basis through standard NHS pathways.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most specialist consultations at Dorking Hospital Outpatients Department in Dorking require a referral from your GP or another doctor. Your GP will refer you through the NHS e-Referral Service. For private patients, some specialists accept direct self-referrals — contact 01306 735459 to check. Under the NHS Constitution, you should start consultant-led treatment within 18 weeks of referral for non-urgent conditions.
Dorking Hospital Outpatients Department provides specialist medical services which may include cardiology, dermatology, gastroenterology, neurology, orthopaedics, rheumatology, endocrinology, respiratory medicine, urology, ENT, ophthalmology, gynaecology, and other specialties. Contact 01306 735459 for a full list of specialists and services available at this clinic.
Many specialist clinics offer both NHS and private consultations. NHS appointments are free but may have longer waiting times. Private appointments offer faster access, flexible scheduling, and a choice of consultant, but fees apply. Contact 01306 735459 to ask about NHS availability and private consultation fees at Dorking Hospital Outpatients Department.
For your first specialist appointment at Dorking Hospital Outpatients Department, bring your referral letter, a list of current medications (or bring the medicines with you), any relevant test results, scans, or medical letters, a list of questions you want to ask, your NHS number, and photo ID if attending as a private patient. It helps to write down your symptoms, when they started, and how they affect your daily life.
Dorking Hospital Outpatients Department may be recognised by major UK health insurance providers. Contact your insurer to confirm coverage at Dorking Hospital Outpatients Department, check your policy excess and benefit limits, and obtain a pre-authorisation code before your appointment. Bring your insurance details and authorisation to your first visit.
If a procedure is planned at Dorking Hospital Outpatients Department, you will receive preparation instructions beforehand. This may include fasting requirements, medication adjustments, arranging transport home (if sedation is used), wearing comfortable clothing, and bringing a companion. A pre-assessment appointment may be arranged to check your fitness for the procedure. Follow all instructions carefully and contact 01306 735459 if you have questions.
After your consultation, the specialist will write to your GP with their findings, diagnosis, and recommended treatment plan. You may be booked for further tests, follow-up appointments, or referred for surgery or other treatment. For NHS patients, a copy of the clinic letter will be sent to you. Ask the specialist when to expect results and next steps before you leave.
Dorking Hospital Outpatients Department may offer on-site diagnostics including blood tests, ultrasound, ECG, spirometry, and other specialist tests. Some clinics also provide MRI, CT, and X-ray services. Having diagnostics on-site means faster results and fewer separate appointments. Ask about available diagnostic services when booking.
NHS waiting times at Dorking Hospital Outpatients Department depend on the specialty and urgency. Two-week wait referrals (suspected cancer) are seen within 14 days. Routine referrals aim to be within 18 weeks. Private appointments can often be arranged within days. Contact 01306 735459 for current waiting times.
Yes, under NHS Patient Choice you can choose which consultant to see when your GP refers you. For private patients, you can request a specific specialist. Consultant profiles with qualifications and specialisms are usually available on the clinic website. Your GP can also recommend a suitable specialist for your condition.
Many specialists at Dorking Hospital Outpatients Department now offer video or telephone consultations for initial assessments, follow-ups, and results discussions. Virtual consultations are convenient and reduce travel time. Not all conditions can be assessed remotely — if a physical examination is needed, you will be asked to attend in person. Ask about remote consultation options when booking.
Yes, you can seek a second opinion at Dorking Hospital Outpatients Department. Under the NHS, you have the right to ask your GP for a referral to a different specialist. Privately, you can book directly. A second opinion can confirm a diagnosis, explore alternative treatment options, or provide reassurance. Bring all previous test results and clinic letters to the consultation.