Outpatients Receptionist

Role summary

Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.

The Outpatients Receptionist welcomes patients, checks them in, books and rearranges appointments, answers telephone and face-to-face enquiries, updates electronic patient records, and supports clinicians and administrative teams. Applicants should have strong customer-service and communication skills, good attention to detail, basic computer literacy, and the ability to remain calm and professional in a busy healthcare environment. Experience in reception, administration, or an NHS setting is helpful, although equivalent customer-facing experience may be considered. The successful candidate must protect patient confidentiality, work accurately, cooperate with colleagues, manage competing priorities, and demonstrate compassion and respect toward patients, relatives, and visitors.

About the employer

The Hillingdon Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust provides acute and specialist healthcare services to residents of Hillingdon and surrounding areas in northwest London. Its main sites include Hillingdon Hospital and Mount Vernon Hospital, supported by outpatient, diagnostic, community, and clinical services. The Trust employs a wide range of clinical, administrative, technical, and support staff who work together to deliver safe, effective, and compassionate care. As an NHS Foundation Trust, it is accountable to patients, local communities, and NHS regulators, with a focus on quality improvement, patient experience, equality, and staff development. The organisation offers structured NHS employment benefits, including annual leave, pension membership, training opportunities, and potential career progression across healthcare services.

Working in United Kingdom

The United Kingdom offers employment opportunities across healthcare, technology, finance, education, retail, engineering, and public services. NHS roles are available nationwide, although competition can be strong in administrative positions. British culture generally values punctuality, privacy, politeness, and clear communication. Lifestyle varies from busy cities such as London and Manchester to quieter coastal and rural communities. Public transport is strongest in major cities, while living costs are usually highest in London and the southeast. Most overseas applicants need permission to work, such as a Skilled Worker visa, but many receptionist and administrative roles do not meet sponsorship requirements, so eligibility should be checked carefully. Relocating involves securing a job offer, visa if required, accommodation, a National Insurance number, and access to healthcare and banking. The UK’s island geography provides easy travel between urban centres, countryside, and coastal areas.