CANCELLING hospital appointments has been made easier after an office extended its hours.
The central appointments office for Darlington Memorial Hospital and Bishop Auckland General Hospital is now manned from 8am to 8pm, Monday to Friday.
Last year, more than 21,000 people failed to keep an appointment at the two hospitals. Officials hope the extended hours will give people who cannot attend more chance to let them know.
Patient manager at South Durham Health Care NHS Trust, Jackie Park, said: "Many people were unable to call us during the day because of work and other commitments. We wanted to offer a more flexible service to our patients.
"It is extremely important that patients let us know if they are unable to attend for their appointment."
Patients can contact the team on (01325) 743333.
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