Book your hospital appointment at Blackburn and Darwen libraries

10:39am Wednesday 23rd April 2008

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PATIENTS will be able to book hospital appointments at the library in Blackburn and Darwen, thanks to a new NHS scheme.

Librarians in Blackburn wtih Darwen are being trained to help patients use the NHS online Choose and Book service for appointments at hospitals, GPs surgeries and clinics.

Last year former health secretary Patricia Hewitt launched a six month library pilot Partnership for Patients' which enabled librarians from 30 libraries in 10 areas to support people using Choose and Book.

The pilots were designed to provide support for patients with a lack of IT skills or access to the internet. Many people are using the library on a regular basis and can now book their hospital appointments at the same time.

Now, the scheme has been introduced in Blackburn with Darwen, and will be up and running on May 6.

Susan Law, head of cultural services for Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: "With the Choose and Book scheme patients are given a choice over where and when they attend initial hospital appointments.

"Now, following on from the successful pilot schemes, GPs will be encouraging patients to book their appointments over the internet at their local library. Whilst users can already do this type of booking themselves, from May 6, they will be able to call into any Blackburn or Darwen library where qualified staff will be on hand to help them through the process."

Those patients wishing to book their hospital appointment on line are actively encouraged to visit any library within Blackburn with Darwen and speak with a librarian.

The online service offers flexibility and choice to choose the hospital, date and time patients wish to be treated.

Alternatively, patients can contact their local Patient Advice and Liaison Service for more information on 08456 015908.