To take to my GP appointment. From checkwaitingtimes.co.uk, data covers waits up to August 2026.

I would like to be referred for ophthalmology to the hospital with the shortest wait.

Under the NHS Constitution, when my GP refers me for a first outpatient appointment I have the right to choose which provider I go to in England, including independent hospitals that hold an NHS contract. I would like to use that right.

The three shortest waits within 25 miles of Folkestone and Hythe

1. Benenden Hospital (independent hospital, free on the NHS)
   Most people treated in August 2026 waited 4 to 10 weeks. 20.5 miles from Folkestone and Hythe. ODS code NWF01.
2. Spamedica Sittingbourne (independent hospital, free on the NHS)
   Most people treated in August 2026 waited 9 to 18 weeks. 24.9 miles from Folkestone and Hythe. ODS code M0N7E.
3. Chaucer Hospital (independent hospital, free on the NHS)
   Most people treated in August 2026 waited 12 to 25 weeks. 13.7 miles from Folkestone and Hythe. ODS code NT408.

What I would like to ask

• Please refer me to my first choice above through the NHS e-Referral Service, or tell me which of the three you can refer to.
• If none of these is suitable, please tell me why and which provider has the shortest wait that is suitable.
• Please let me know my referral date, so I can track my wait.

Figures: NHS England, Referral to Treatment (RTT) waiting times, monthly full CSV (Open Government Licence v3.0). Waits cover the whole of ophthalmology, not one operation. This sheet is not medical advice.

Name: ____________________________   Date of birth: ______________   NHS number (if known): ____________________