What is waiting time?
Waiting time is the length of time that passes between the hospital receiving your Recommendation for Admission form and the day you are admitted to hospital. If the form is delayed in reaching the hospital, the waiting time will appear shorter than it actually is.
Sometimes, a non-urgent patient may need to wait for a specialist appointment. The time between seeing your GP and the specialist is NOT included in your waiting time for admission to hospital.
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How does it work?
Usually, your GP will refer you to a specialist doctor if he/she thinks you might need admission to a hospital.
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What influences my waiting time?
The length of time you wait for admission is affected by a number of factors, including the type of treatment you need, who your specialist doctor is and the hospital to which you are being admitted.more >>
More information
If you require further information or if you would like to discuss alternative options for your care, you may contact your local Waiting Time Coordinator or the Patient Access Coordinator at the NSW Department of Health. All enquiries to the Patient Access Unit are treated individually and in confidence.