Pre-Assessment
To ensure the highest standards of individual care for examination and procedures, patients are required to complete a health questionnaire.  This will be followed by a pre-assessment either face to face or by telephone with a registered practitioner.  Patients will be asked about their general medical conditions and be advised about the proposed procedure.  Patients will also be asked to bring their current medication, medical information and insurance details with them.

Patient Information
Prior to admission, patients will receive verbal and written information relating to their care, which will include

• Details of their confirmed appointment.
• Details of the centre including date and time of admission
• Procedure specific instructions such as fasting requirements and personal items required for the day.
• Staff contact details for pre and post discharge advice.

Once the patient is fully informed of the planned procedure or investigation, they will be asked to give their written understanding of the procedure or investigation and the possible effects by signing a consent form.

Patient Admission
On arrival at Chelmsford Medical Centre patients should report to reception on the first floor where basic details will be confirmed.  A registered practitioner will then review the pre-assessment details to address any recent changes and run through the pre-operative check list.

Anaesthetic
Patients requiring general anaesthetic will consult their appointed anaesthetist prior to commencement of the theatre session.

Patient Discharge
Patients admitted to Chelmsford Medical Centre will be discharged from the centre when they are fully recovered and have been assessed by a fully qualified member of staff.

For patients undergoing general anaesthetic or sedation, it is imperative that a friend or relative either accompanies them home or is at home to meet them and stays with them for 24 hours following their admission.  Patients must not drive a car, operate machinery or drink alcohol for 24 hours following any procedure performed under general anaesthetic or sedation.

Patients Unfit for Discharge
In the event of a patient requiring overnight or extended inpatient stay, Chelmsford Medical Centre will arrange for the patient to be admitted to an alternative overnight hospital facility and communicate the arrangements with their relatives or carers.

Post Discharge Care
Patients will be able to seek the advice of a registered qualified practitioner at all times via our dedicated post discharge helpline.

Follow up Appointments
Follow-up appointments may be necessary and will be arranged before discharge.