Rheumatology Service at SHIRLEY OAKS HOSPITAL

At SHIRLEY OAKS HOSPITAL, the median rheumatology service wait is 19 weeks, compared to 8 weeks nationally. Doctor Data Wait Score: 1/10. Right to Choose now: switching NHS hospitals can dramatically cut your wait. If you have private medical insurance, also worth a parallel conversation with your insurer.

1. 1

   Talk to your GP about Right to Choose

   By NHS law you can choose any NHS hospital in England for your first outpatient appointment. Take a pre-filled letter to your GP — it sets out your situation and the trust you'd prefer.

   Generate GP letter
2. 2

   Compare with other NHS hospitals near you

   See which NHS trusts have shorter waits for this specialty. Useful evidence for your GP conversation.

   See national rankings for rheumatology
3. 3

   Check if private medical insurance would cover this

   Many people have PMI through their employer or partner without realising. A 5-minute check can be worth months saved.

   How to check your PMI cover