Specialists

Richardson Community Hospital

Victoria Road,Barnard Castle, Barnard Castle DL12 8HT

Overview

Richardson Community Hospital is a healthcare facility located in Barnard Castle, County Durham. As a community hospital, it provides essential local healthcare services to residents of the surrounding area, serving as an important part of the NHS infrastructure in this market town and the wider Teesdale region.

The hospital typically offers services including outpatient clinics, minor injury treatment, and community-based care. It functions as a convenient local facility that helps reduce pressure on larger district general hospitals while providing accessible healthcare closer to patients' homes. The facility serves both planned appointments and urgent care needs for the local population.

As part of the NHS system, Richardson Community Hospital works in partnership with other local health services to ensure comprehensive care pathways for patients. The hospital is an important resource for the Barnard Castle community, providing services to both local residents and those travelling from surrounding villages and towns in the Durham Dales area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most specialist consultations at Richardson Community Hospital in Barnard Castle 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 the service to check. Under the NHS Constitution, you should start consultant-led treatment within 18 weeks of referral for non-urgent conditions.
Richardson Community Hospital provides specialist medical services which may include cardiology, dermatology, gastroenterology, neurology, orthopaedics, rheumatology, endocrinology, respiratory medicine, urology, ENT, ophthalmology, gynaecology, and other specialties. Contact the service 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 the service to ask about NHS availability and private consultation fees at Richardson Community Hospital.
For your first specialist appointment at Richardson Community Hospital, 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.
If a procedure is planned at Richardson Community Hospital, 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 the service if you have questions.
Yes, you can seek a second opinion at Richardson Community Hospital. 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.
Many specialists at Richardson Community Hospital 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.
Richardson Community Hospital 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 Richardson Community Hospital 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 the service 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.
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.
Richardson Community Hospital may be recognised by major UK health insurance providers. Contact your insurer to confirm coverage at Richardson Community Hospital, 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.
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Contact Details
Address
Victoria Road,Barnard Castle
Barnard Castle, North East England
DL12 8HT
Social Links
Opening Hours
Monday 08:00 - 18:00
Tuesday 08:00 - 18:00
Wednesday 08:00 - 18:00
Thursday 08:00 - 18:00
Friday 08:00 - 18:00
Saturday 09:00 - 17:00
Sunday 09:00 - 17:00
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