"new booking-in procedure"

Thank you for your posting on NHS Choices about the new booking system at East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust. We have indeed introduced a new centralised booking procedure, however this is for Outpatient clinics only. There have been no changes to the arrangements for patients attending the oncology ward or day unit who continue to report directly to those areas. Oncology outpatients were identified as a vulnerable group who continue to report directly to the designated Outpatient clinic area. Unfortunately some of these patients did receive letters with incorrect information which may have caused this problem. This has now been rectified and we are very sorry for any inconvenience caused. In respect of Outpatient area D, initially the receptionist was withdrawn but has now been reinstated although cover is limited at times. When this happens a phone has been provided to allow patients to book in over the phone and avoid unnecessary distances. We apologise to all patients who have been incovenienced whilst we have introduced the new booking in system. Unfortunately there have been a few teething problems, however, we are pleased to report that these are now resolved.