Hip replacement · England
How do I ask the NHS to check another hospital for my hip replacement?
If you are already waiting and likely to wait longer than the applicable maximum, you can ask your hospital — and if needed your local ICB — to look into suitable alternative providers. You do not usually need to start with a new GP referral. Here is how to ask clearly.
Who to ask, and in what order
Start with the hospital's waiting-list team or PALS. If that does not lead anywhere, contact your local integrated care board (ICB), which commissions NHS services in your area.
Wording you can adapt
Nothing is sent for you. Copy and edit this as needed:
“I was referred for a hip replacement on [referral date] and am still waiting for treatment. I understand that if I am likely to wait longer than the maximum waiting time, I can ask for suitable alternative providers to be considered. Please could you look into whether a suitable alternative provider could see or treat me sooner, and confirm how my existing referral-to-treatment clock would be treated.”
What to expect
The NHS will decide whether an exception applies and which alternatives, if any, are suitable and available. Any provider you have identified from published evidence is only a suggestion worth asking about.
What this means for you
- Confirm your referral date before you write.
- Send the request in writing and keep a copy.
- Escalate to the ICB if the hospital cannot help.
This guide gives administrative information for patients in England. It is not medical advice and cannot predict your operation date.
Frequently asked questions
Short answers first. Tap a question to read more.
Can I name a hospital I would like considered?
Yes, you can mention one. The NHS will still decide whether it is suitable and able to treat you.
See where you stand in 60 seconds
Use our free 18-week calculator to check whether your wait may have passed the NHS Referral to Treatment standard.
Sources & references3
Reviewed against publicly available NHS England RTT guidance and the NHS Constitution.
Editorial transparency
How this guide was put together
- Reviewed against the latest publicly available NHS England RTT statistics and guidance.
- Written and edited by the NHSWaitHelper editorial team.
- Cross-checked against the NHS Constitution and operational guidance.
- Independent — no paid hospital rankings, no hidden sponsorship.
NHSWaitHelper is an independent information platform and is not affiliated with the NHS. We do not provide medical or legal advice. Always speak to your GP, clinician, or a regulated adviser about your individual circumstances.