Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated 02/02/2024

We’ve put together some answers to the most frequently asked questions about coming to KIMS Hospital. We’ll update this page regularly with new content, and you’ll be given all the details you need about coming in for an appointment when we send you your appointment booking information

COVID-19

What is the Covid-19 guidance at KIMS Hospital?

Reducing the risk of infection is crucial to the safety of our visitors, patients and staff. Whilst we no longer test our patients routinely for Covid-19 it is important for us to maintain strict standards of hygiene. We therefore appeal to the public to play their part in preventing outbreaks of Covid-19 by encouraging everyone to take personal responsibility for protecting their community. We also encourage everyone who comes to KIMS Hospital to follow our hand hygiene guidance.

Additional information in relation to Covid-19 can be obtained from the Government Website: https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus

Imaging & Diagnostics

I have been referred for a scan, how long will it take to get an appointment?

There is currently a very high demand for our imaging services, especially MRI scans. If your consultant refers you for a scan, please note that it may take up to two weeks from your initial consultation for this to take place.

Your consultant will be aware of this, and will book your follow-up appointment for an appropriate date, to ensure your scan results are available.

Urgent scans will be prioritised and managed according to our updated patient pathways.

Consultations

Can I book a private appointment?

Yes, we are pleased to welcome you as a private patient to KIMS Hospital.

Can I have a virtual consultation?

We are offering virtual consultations where clinically appropriate. You can request a virtual consultation with our enquiries team, who will be able to confirm if it is appropriate. For some conditions, a physical examination will be necessary, and so you would still need to come into the hospital for your consultation. We are also booking virtual follow-up appointments where this is appropriate.

Procedures and treatment

If I am coming in for a procedure, do I need to do anything differently?

If you’re coming to us as an inpatient we’ll be asking you to take a lateral flow test within 24 hours of admission. You will need to register this test result on https://www.gov.uk/report-covid19-result and sign a declaration on arrival to confirm that you have taken a test and that the result is negative.

Please be aware patients who test positive for Covid before their admission date will have their procedure cancelled and re-dated. We therefore advise precautions are taken to minimise your risk including wearing face masks and restricting contact with others. We will provide you with more detail about where to get support if you have a positive result.

 

I am being dropped off and picked up for my procedure, where can my friend/relative wait for me?

If you have a friend or relative who decides to wait for you while you undergo your procedure, please note that to help us remain a COVID-19 free site, we unfortunately can’t accommodate them within the hospital at this time. However, there are a some places nearby where they can pass the time between dropping you off and picking you up.

  • Newnham Court Shopping Village, which is home to a number of shopping and eating facilities, including Notcutts Garden Centre,  Bricks Coffee House and the Greene King Pub and Restaurant, The Newnham Court Inn and Marks & Spencers Coffee Shop.
  • There are two Costa Coffee Shops nearby; one is in Next in Eclipse Park, and the other is in Tesco in Grove Green.
  • The Early Bird pub in Grove Green.
  • The nearby village of Bearsted is home to a beautiful village green, which has two popular restaurants; The White Horse and The Oak on the Green.
  • In good weather, you might choose to visit nearby Mote Park for a walk by the lake.
  • Maidstone Town Centre is also only a 5-10 minute drive away, and offers a range of coffee shops, restaurants and shops to enjoy while waiting.

Am I allowed to have visitors at the hospital?

Patients who are staying overnight are allowed up to 2 visitors between 10am and 9pm. Visitors must sign in at the ward reception. Children are welcome to visit but must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

I am due to have physical therapy after my procedure, how will this work?

Currently the Physical Therapy team are offering a variety of approaches, including face to face, telephone and video appointments. This decision is based on a mix of clinical need, patient risk assessment and patient preference.

Can't find the answers you need? Give us a call on 01622 237500