Your right to reasonable adjustments

Reasonable adjustments are small changes that can help make things more accessible for you. They are your legal right.

Reasonable adjustments are individual to you, and there will be changes that doctors can make which aren’t listed here. That is great but here are some ideas to help you go to your healthcare appointments.

Reasonable adjustment ideas

Ask for a double appointment

A double appointment means that you will have longer with the doctor or nurse. This extra time can help you relax and give you more time to talk to them and make sure you’re comfortable with any checks or tests that you need.

Ask for your appointment at the beginning and end of the day

The doctors might be quieter at the start and the end of the day. You can ask the receptionist when is the quietest time of day for that practice.

By having an appointment at the start or end of the day you will also be able to ask about any delays.

Ask for a quiet area or room to wait in

Asking for a quiet place where you can wait is a good way to help you relax when you arrive. They might not have space for this, but try asking for one when you make your appointment.

Ask for someone to come and collect you when it’s time

Some doctors have screens or sound alerts to tell you when it’s time for your appointment. If you aren’t comfortable with this you can ask for a member of staff to collect you when it is time for your appointment.

Ask for easy read information and social stories

Some doctors will be able to send letters and information in easy read and may be able to send you a social story that is personalised to their practice. You can then edit it to help you get ready for your journey.