If you have been referred by your Doctor (GP) to the Manchester Royal Infirmary to meet with a specialist, it is likely your first meeting will happen in the Main Outpatient Department. The Outpatient Department provides private rooms to Doctors and Nurses (clinicians) from lots of different services. The clinicians working here change every day.
What will happen when I arrive for my appointment?
It is important that you arrive for your appointment on time. Clinicians will have many patients to see in their clinic room. When you arrive at the department you must ‘check in’ for your appointment. Our receptionists will then tell you where to wait to see your clinician. There are four waiting areas, each with different coloured chairs. The team will be happy to help if you are not sure which way to go.
The clinician will call your name when they are ready to see you. In each room is an examination bed, some chairs, a desk and a computer. The clinicians will spend some time looking at your medical records and some time talking to you about your treatment. There is always time for you to ask your clinician questions.
Some clinicians may speak into Dictaphones or Microphones during your appointment. This is to help them write up their notes and make sure you have a written record of what was discussed at the appointment. You can ask them not to do this if you prefer.
You may also be asked to give a sample such as a blood or urine sample. These are taken by the Phlebotomy team. You may be asked to wait in a specific chair. Patient Toilets are available in all areas.
We make every effort to make sure our clinics run on time but sometimes delays happen. We will always try to make you aware of any delays.
Further Support
Within the main Outpatient Department you will also find the ‘Live Well’ hub. This is a space where you can seek advice on your wellbeing. There is also a Macmillan centre where staff offer support to patients with cancer and their carers.
Carers are always welcome in the department, as are family members and friends of patients. It is your choice if these people join you to meet your clinician in the clinic room.
If you have a transport need, our team will help you arrange your journey home.
Blood sample drop-in
If your clinician has asked you for a blood sample at a different time, we also offer a drop-in clinic. No appointment is needed for a bloods drop-in. You can do this at the following times:
- Monday – Thursday 8.30am – 12pm and then 1pm until 3pm
- Friday 8.30am – 12pm and then 1pm until 5pm.
Contact Details
If you are running late for your appointment, please call:
Reception: 0161 276 5971
How do I find the Main Outpatients Department?
Main Outpatients is located near to ‘MRI Entrance 1’ – close to Grafton Street. The outpatient department is an accessible venue on the ground floor of the hospital.
The nearest car park is Grafton Street car park. There is an hourly fee to park here.
The nearest bus stops are:
- Manchester Royal Infirmary Stop G and H – Grafton Street (191, 197)
- Manchester Royal Infirmary Stop D – Oxford Road (15, 41, 42, 42A, 42B, 42C, 43, 87, 111, 142, 143)
There is a taxi drop-off and pick-up area immediately outside the department.
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Please note, the Main Outpatient Department is NOT the only outpatient area in the hospital. Some services have their own departments. Please check your booking letter carefully to find out where you need to attend. We will always be happy to direct you to the right area.