I'm now on a waiting list for an operation - what next?

For adults under these specialities: Breast/ENT/General Surgery/Gynaecology/Spinal/Orthopaedics/Oral/Maxillofacial/Urology 

If you've had your first outpatient appointment - and it's been agreed you need surgery - here's some information about what you can expect next.

You may be sent an “intelligent health screening questionnaire” (iHSQ). This is a set of questions about your health and any conditions you have. It could arrive by text, email or letter so please ensure we have your accurate contact details. While it may be similar to an earlier questionnaire you may have filled in, it is a fresh one and it’s important you complete it as soon and as accurately as possible.

Every six months while you are on the waiting list, we will send you an updated health screening questionnaire (iHSQ). This helps us keep your health information up to date. Please complete all questionnaires when you receive them. Your answers help us monitor your health and plan your surgery more safely and effectively.

Note: If your condition worsens, or you develop a new condition,  seek advice through the usual ways (GP, pharmacy, A&E) as completing this questionnaire will not trigger rapid medical assessment.

The iHSQ is now being used in Breast, ENT, General Surgery, Gynaecology, Orthopaedics and Urology. We expect to extend this to Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Spinal Surgery by the end of November 2026. As questionnaires are being sent in phases, not all patients waiting for surgery will receive one at the same time.

Meanwhile, there is a lot you can continue to do while you are waiting for your operation. Please go here to visit our Preparing for Surgery page.

Not under one of the specialties above?

At present, iHSQ questionnaires are only being sent to adult patients who are under these eight specialities - that may change in future to cover additional specialities. 

If you've had your first outpatient appointment under a different specialty to the ones listed above  - and it's been agreed you need surgery - there is a lot you can continue to do to while you are waiting for your operation. Please go here to visit our Preparing for Surgery page.