Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora has launched a national waitlist validation process for all patients who have been waiting longer than 120 days for a First Specialist Assessment (FSA) or elective treatment. This work is underway across all Te Waipounamu districts and must be completed before end of June 2025.

Christchurch Hospital’s Health Specialties Department is currently contacting patients who are on the waitlist to confirm whether they still require their appointment.

Patients will receive a text message asking them to reply with the following information:

  1. Full name
  2. Date of birth
  3. Confirmation of whether they still require the appointment (and reason if not)
  4. Home address
  5. GP name
  6. Email address for future contact

Where contact is not successful, follow-up by phone and clinical review will be initiated.

Please note:

  • This is a legitimate and secure communication from Health NZ – Christchurch Hospital
  • All patient responses are handled in line with our privacy and health information policies
  • If a patient no longer requires care, a formal letter will be sent to both the patient and your practice
  • The goal is to improve access and prioritisation of care

If you have any concerns or would like to speak with our outpatient validation team, please contact the Referral Centre via email: Referral_Centre@cdhb.health.nz (Note the underscore between Referral Centre) or phone 03 364 1925 between the below mentioned times.

  • Weekdays 11 Jun to 27 Jun – 7am to 6pm
  • Sat 14 Jun … 8am to 2pm
  • Fri 20 Jun … 8am to 2pm
  • Sat 21 Jun … 8am to 2pm

FAQs

1) Why have I received a text message from Christchurch Hospital?

You’ve received this message because our records show you’ve been referred to the Health Specialties Department for a First Specialist Assessment (FSA), and you are currently on our waitlist. We are checking in to confirm whether you still require this appointment.

2) Is this message real or is it a scam?

Yes, the message is genuine. It has been sent by the Health Specialties Department at Christchurch Hospital as part of a national initiative led by Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora. If you are unsure or would like to double-check, you can contact the Referral Centre via email: Referral_Centre@cdhb.health.nz (Note the underscore between Referral Centre) or phone 03 364 1925 between the below-mentioned times.

  • Weekdays 11 Jun to 27 Jun – 7am to 6pm
  • Sat 14 Jun … 8am to 2pm
  • Fri 20 Jun … 8am to 2pm
  • Sat 21 Jun … 8am to 2pm

3) Why are you asking for personal information like my name and date of birth?

We ask for this information to verify your identity and ensure we are updating the right patient record. Your details will be kept confidential and will only be used for the purpose of managing your care.

4) What happens if I no longer need my appointment?

If your health issue has resolved or you’ve received treatment elsewhere, you can let us know in your reply. We’ll close your referral and notify your GP, so you’re no longer waiting unnecessarily.

5) What if I still need my appointment?

Please reply confirming that you still require your appointment. Your position on the waitlist will be maintained, and we’ll ensure your records are updated to reflect this.

6) I’m not sure if I still need the appointment – what should I do?

If you’re unsure, please reply and let us know. A clinician may review your case or contact you to help decide whether an appointment is still needed.

7) I’m on the waitlist for more than one hospital appointment – will I get more than one message?

Possibly. If you're on multiple waitlists, you may be contacted separately by each department. In some cases, people with more complex care needs will be phoned instead of receiving a text.

8) What happens if I don’t respond?

If we don’t hear from you, we may try contacting you again by phone or email. Eventually, if we’re unable to confirm that you still need care, you may be removed from the waitlist, and a letter will be sent to you and your GP.

9) Can someone reply on my behalf?

Yes. A family member, carer, or support person can reply on your behalf — especially if they usually manage your healthcare. Please ensure they include your name and details when responding.

10) Who can I contact if I have questions?

If you have concerns or need support to respond, please contact the Referral Centre via email: Referral_Centre@cdhb.health.nz (Note the underscore between Referral Centre) or phone 03 364 1925 between the below-mentioned times.

  • Weekdays 11 Jun to 27 Jun – 7am to 6pm
  • Sat 14 Jun … 8am to 2pm
  • Fri 20 Jun … 8am to 2pm
  • Sat 21 Jun … 8am to 2pm