What is a referral?
A referral is when a GP or clinician sends your details to another service, such as a hospital, specialist clinic, or community team, for further care.
Requesting a referral
If you think you may need a referral, you will need an appointment with a clinician first.
They will assess your condition and decide whether a referral is appropriate.
Self-referrals
Some services allow you to refer yourself directly (for example physiotherapy or mental health services).
Using these services can often be quicker than waiting for a GP referral.
- Abuse
- Carers
- Drugs and alcohol
- Eating disorders
- Exercise
- Maternity
- Mental health
- Sexual health
- Stop smoking
- Speech therapy
- Youth counselling
- Weight management
Other Self-Referral Services Available in Derby:
Some services in Derby accept direct referrals — no GP needed. These include:
- Talking Therapies (e.g. for stress, anxiety, low mood)
🔗 Derbyshire Talking Therapies (NHS) - Physiotherapy
🔗 Physio Self-Referral – UHDB - Sexual Health & Contraception Services
🔗 Your Sexual Health Derby - Podiatry, Smoking Cessation, Weight Management
🔗 Visit Our Website for Links & Support - Other Services available in Derby – Self-referral services » Joined Up Care Derbyshire
What happens after your referral is sent?
Once your referral has been made:
- It is sent to the relevant service
- The receiving service will review your referral
- They will contact you directly to arrange an appointment
This can take time depending on the service and level of urgency.
Have a query about your referral?
If your referral has already been sent, please contact the hospital or service directly for updates. This is usually the quickest way to get information.
Contacting the practice about a referral
If needed, you can contact our secretarial team:
- Use our automated telephone service (24 hours a day)
Call 01332 502735
Option 1 – Option 2 – Option 2
Your message will be sent directly to the team.
Booking your appointment
If your referral is made through the NHS e-Referral Service (e-RS), you will be asked to book your appointment yourself.
You will receive a letter within 2 weeks with details of how to book your appointment and any passwords you may need.
Important information
Once your referral has been sent:
- We cannot see hospital appointment dates or waiting times
- We cannot speed up referrals
Please contact the hospital or service directly for updates.
Changes to your condition
If your symptoms have worsened since your referral, please contact the practice to arrange an appointment with a clinician.