PATIENTS waiting for an outpatient appointment with Dorset County Hospital (DCH) are being urged to look out for a text message.

The text message, which is being sent to help the Dorchester hospital manage its waiting lists, is asking residents to confirm they still need the appointment.

A spokesperson for the Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust said: "We are working hard to see patients as quickly as possible.

"To help us understand if patients’ circumstances have changed, we are using a new text message and online question service called Dr Doctor.

"If you do receive this text message, please do not ignore it - your response is really important to help us manage our waiting lists.

"Please follow the link in your text message to let us know if you still need your appointment."

Once patients respond they will be asked to verify their date of birth and depending on their response they will either remain on the waiting list or, if requested, will be discharged back to the care team that referred them.