NHS Electronic Referral Service (e-RS)
Previously known as Choose and Book, the e-Referral Service (e-RS) is a national service that combines electronic booking with a choice of place, date and time.
Patients can choose their first hospital or clinic appointment either by booking it at the GP surgery, online or over the phone.
How to manage your appointment
Once you have been referred to our hospital by your GP through the NHS e-Referral Service, managing your appointment online is easy, safe and secure.
You can check and manage your appointment online by going to NHS Choices or by calling our outpatients departments at University Hospital Lewisham or at Queen Elizabeth Hospital.
You will need:
- The booking reference number stated on your appointment letter
- The password you received from your referrer (eg your GP)
If you do not have your booking reference number or password, please contact the person or organisation who referred you.
How to choose your hospital or clinic
In some cases you will have more than one clinic or hospital to choose from. The list of options will be the same whether you decide to book online or over the phone.
Before you select your clinic and appointment slot, consider all the options such as:
- How long do I have to wait for my first appointment?
- How quickly can I start my treatment?
- How far away is the hospital or clinic?
In most cases you have the legal right to choose the hospital or service you'd like to go to. This will include many private hospitals, as long as they provide services to the NHS. Learn more about your choices in the NHS.
To find out more about our services, please see our A-Z of Services
What to do if you have not been referred yet
If you want to be seen at a hospital or clinic you will need to speak to your GP. They will help you decide what care is best for you and make any necessary referrals. Find out more about GP referrals.