Greater Manchester Advice & Guidance (A&G) - What Patients Need to Know
From October 2026, some hospital referrals in Greater Manchester are changing as part of a new Advice & Guidance (A&G) process. This aims to ensure patients receive the right care, from the right clinician, at the right time. The change forms part of the wider Single Point of Access (SPoA) programme being introduced by Tameside & Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust. [FW: Advice...ance comms | Outlook], [Advice & G...ance Comms | Outlook]
What does this mean for patients?
Previously, your GP may have referred you directly to a hospital specialist. Under the new process, for some conditions your GP may first seek advice electronically from a specialist consultant before making a referral. [FW: Advice...ance comms | Outlook], [Advice & G...ance Comms | Outlook]
This means that:
- You may receive specialist advice without needing a hospital appointment.
- Your GP may be able to arrange tests, treatment or monitoring based on the specialist's recommendations.
- If a hospital appointment is still needed, the consultant can advise on the most appropriate service and urgency.
- In some cases, this may help avoid unnecessary appointments and reduce delays in accessing care. [FW: Advice...ance comms | Outlook], [Advice & G...ance Comms | Outlook]
What are the benefits?
The Advice & Guidance process can help patients to:
- Receive specialist input more quickly.
- Access treatment closer to home where appropriate.
- Reduce unnecessary hospital visits.
- Ensure referrals are directed to the most suitable specialist service. [FW: Advice...ance comms | Outlook], [Advice & G...ance Comms | Outlook]
Will this delay my care?
No. The Advice & Guidance process is designed to improve patient pathways and ensure that referrals are appropriate and directed correctly. If a specialist appointment is required, your GP will continue to arrange this following the consultant's advice. [FW: Advice...ance comms | Outlook], [Advice & G...ance Comms | Outlook]
What do I need to do?
You do not need to take any action. If your GP decides that Advice & Guidance is appropriate, they will discuss the next steps with you and keep you informed of any recommendations from the specialist team.
For more information, please click here to download the accompanying patient leaflet.