*Welcome to the OutUK series looking at gay men and their health brought to you in association with the NHS* website.**
	Each week we'll tackle a different topic in our A to Z of Gay Health. We'll have features and advice on everything from relationships, sexual health, mental and physical conditions and how to stay fit. You can follow any of links provided below for more information direct from the NHS website, or see this week's feature L: Laxatives.

Book An Appointment

If you've been referred to a specialist through the NHS e-Referral Service, booking your appointment online is easy, safe and secure.

The "Start now" button below will open the NHS e-Referral Service booking website: Manage Your Referral.

You'll need your:

booking reference number
password or access code

If you do not have these details, contact the person or organisation that referred you.

You can also use the "Start now" button to:

check your appointment details
change your appointment
cancel your appointment
cancel your referral

We want as many people as possible to use our service. The Manage Your Referral accessibility statement gives details about how accessible this website is and how we are improving your experience.

Book an appointment using the NHS App

You can also use the NHS App to book or manage your appointment. The app also features health advice, and you can order repeat prescriptions and view your GP health record.

Choosing your hospital or clinic

You may have more than one hospital or clinic to choose from. But the options will be the same if you book online or over the phone.

Consider all the options before choosing a hospital or clinic and appointment slot.

For example:

How long do I have to wait for my first appointment?
How quickly can I start my treatment?
How far away is the hospital or clinic?

In most cases, you have the legal right to choose the hospital or service you'd like to go to. This includes private hospitals, as long as they provide NHS services.

Learn more about your choices in the NHS.

What to do if you've not been referred

Speak to a GP if you want to be seen at a hospital or clinic. They'll help you decide what care is best for you and make any necessary referrals.

Find out more about referrals for specialist care.

How your data is used

Find out how your data is used in the NHS e-Referral Service, and your rights.

OutUK's A to Z of Gay Health continues and you can read this week's feature L: Laxatives. We have covered many subjects in this series and you can catch up with all of our Previous A to Z Features. If you want to find out more about this particular topic you can visit the Original article on the NHS website. If you are worried by any aspect of your health make sure you go and see your doctor or book an appointment at your local clinic.
Photos: LightFieldStudios and one of VladOrlov, Stockcube, darak77, ajr_images or rawpixel.com.