A service offering people across East Sussex information, advice and support on NHS services has launched a new telephone number.
The NHS East Sussex Downs and Weald and NHS Hastings and Rother Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) is available to offer people information , as well as helping to resolve any queries or problems patients and carers may have.
PALS is a confidential service available for anyone who needs help with information about local health care, whether it is how to find a doctor or dentist, or to discuss the best way to solve any issues you may have with the local NHS, or even send a thank you.
NHS East Sussex Downs and Weald and NHS Hastings and Rother value the information provided to us by patients and the public.
This information can lead to real changes and improvements in our services and the PALS team is an important way through which you can pass on your views about how well we are working.
Some quotes from people who the PALS team have helped include,
“I was worried about speaking to my GP about an issue I had. PALS contacted them for me and the problem was quickly sorted out”
“PALS helped me when I had concerns about my dental treatment.”
“PALS sent me the information I was after. I would not have known what to do without them”.
New number
The new PALS number is: 0300 1000 891
Calls to 03 numbers cost the same or less than calls to 01 and 02 prefixed numbers and will be included as part of any inclusive minutes or discount package.
These rules will apply to calls from any type of line, including mobile, other fixed line or payphone.
More about PALS
The public can choose to ask for advice from PALS in confidence, including how to get copies of their health records.
If the PALS team cannot answer a question straightaway they can go and find out and get back to you.
All NHS organisations have a PALS service:
East Sussex Hospitals NHS Trust PALS teams:
Conquest Hospital, Hastings: 01424 758090
Eastbourne District General Hospital 01323 435886
Brighton and Sussex Universities Hospital Trust 01273 696955 Ext 4029.
Sussex Partnership Trust (Mental Health Trust): 01323 446042
