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 Gateshead

1. Newcastle Newmedica Ltd (independent hospital, free on the NHS)
   Most people treated in August 2026 waited 7 to 16 weeks. 5.3 miles from Gateshead. ODS code R7W2O.
2. Optegra Eye Hospital Newcastle (independent hospital, free on the NHS)
   Most people treated in August 2026 waited 11 to 19 weeks. 0.3 miles from Gateshead. ODS code E4K5T.
3. The Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
   Most people treated in August 2026 waited 11 to 36 weeks. 4.1 miles from Gateshead. ODS code RTD.

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): ____________________